Sunday, April 20, 2025

 Here’s a cheat sheet for quick reference:


### Unique Structures in Eukaryotic Cells:

1. **Nucleus**: Houses genetic material; prokaryotes lack a defined nucleus.

2. **Membrane-bound Organelles**: Includes mitochondria (powerhouse), endoplasmic reticulum (protein/lipid synthesis), Golgi apparatus (packaging and transport), lysosomes (waste breakdown).

3. **Cytoskeleton**: Provides structural support and facilitates cell movement.

4. **Complex Chromosomes**: Linear DNA associated with histones.

5. **Mitotic Division**: Eukaryotes divide through mitosis; prokaryotes use binary fission.


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### Targeting Prokaryotes with a New Drug:

For selective targeting, focus on:

1. **Peptidoglycan Cell Wall**: Found only in prokaryotes (e.g., antibiotics like penicillin inhibit cell wall synthesis).

   - **Why?** Eukaryotic cells lack peptidoglycan, minimizing harm to host cells.

2. **Ribosomes (70S)**: Prokaryotes have smaller ribosomes compared to eukaryotes (80S).

   - **Why?** Drugs like tetracycline exploit ribosomal differences to inhibit protein synthesis.

3. **Unique Metabolic Pathways**: Prokaryotes may have specific enzymes for processes like folic acid synthesis (e.g., sulfa drugs target these).

   - **Why?** Eukaryotes rely on dietary folic acid, so the drug selectively affects bacterial cells.

4. **Flagella Structure**: Prokaryotic flagella are simpler and can be targeted without impacting eukaryotic flagella.

5. **Plasmid DNA**: Prokaryotes often carry antibiotic resistance genes in plasmids, which can be disrupted.


These choices ensure minimal impact on eukaryotic host cells while effectively targeting prokaryotic pathogens. Let me know if you'd like to explore any of these points in more detail!

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