2.10 - Cell Compartmentalization

Compartmentalization in Cells

• Cellular Structures:

  • Prokaryotic Cells:

    • Lack membrane-bound organelles.

    • Contain specialized structures that are not separated by membranes, leading to less compartmentalization compared to eukaryotic cells.

    • Prokaryotes have existed on Earth for approximately 1 billion years before the appearance of eukaryotic cells.

  • Eukaryotic Cells:

    • Characterized by the presence of a nucleus and various membrane-bound organelles.

    • These membranes divide the cell into compartments, allowing for separate and specific enzymatic reactions within distinct cellular environments.

    • Increased surface area provided by these compartments enhances the cell's ability to carry out various reactions efficiently.

• Function of Compartmentalization:

  • By segregating various biochemical processes into different organelles, cells can optimize enzymatic reactions and control biological processes more efficiently. This organizational structure also prevents potentially harmful chemical reactions from interfering with cellular operations.