Eukaryote

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Eucaryotes)

Eukaryote is a term in biology that refers to an organism whose cells contain a nucleus surrounded by a membrane, as well as other specialized organelles, all of which are enclosed by a plasma membrane. Eukaryotes include animals, plants, and fungi, but not bacteria or archaea.

Characteristics[edit | edit source]

Eukaryotic cells are typically much larger than those of prokaryotes. They have a variety of internal membrane-bound structures, called organelles, and a cytoskeleton composed of microtubules, microfilaments, and intermediate filaments, which play an important role in defining the cell's organization and shape.

Nucleus[edit | edit source]

The defining feature of eukaryotic cells is the nucleus, or nuclear envelope, within which the cells' DNA is organized into structures called chromosomes. Each eukaryotic cell also contains other membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria and the Golgi apparatus.

Other Organelles[edit | edit source]

In addition to the nucleus, eukaryotic cells may contain several other types of organelles, which may include mitochondria, chloroplasts, the endoplasmic reticulum, the Golgi apparatus, and lysosomes. Each of these organelles performs a specific function critical for the cell to function properly.

Classification[edit | edit source]

Eukaryotes are classified into three main groups: Animalia, Plantae, and Fungi. Each of these groups is thought to be monophyletic, meaning that all organisms within each group are believed to have descended from a common ancestor.

Evolution[edit | edit source]

The origin and early evolution of eukaryotes is still not completely understood, but it is generally believed that they evolved from prokaryotic organisms through a process of endosymbiosis.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Eukaryote Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD