Eukaryotic Cells: The term Eukaryotes is derived from the two Greek words EU (means good) and Karyon (means kernel).

• This means the cell has a good nucleus.
• It contains almost all the kingdoms of organisms.
• Eukaryotic cells have larger and more complex structures as compared to prokaryotic cells.
• The cell’s nuclear membrane covers the outer surface of the cell called the eukaryotic cell.
• The organisms having a nucleus covered with a nuclear membrane are called eukaryotes.

The features of eukaryotic cells are as follows:

1. Eukaryotic cells have the nucleus enclosed within the nuclear membrane.

2. The cell has mitochondria.

3. Flagella and cilia are the locomotory organs in a eukaryotic cell.

4. A cell wall is the outermost layer of the eukaryotic cells.

5. The cells divide by a process called mitosis.

6. The eukaryotic cells contain a cytoskeletal structure.

7. The nucleus contains a single, linear DNA, which carries all the genetic information.

Important Components of Eukaryotic Cells

The eukaryotic cells consist of various components. The main components of eukaryotic cells are as follows:

• Plasma membrane – It covers the outer region of the cell and separates the cell structure from the external environment. It is made up of protein contents and exchanges the substances from the cell.
• Cell wall – The cell wall is made from protein, cellulose, and pectins. It is found only in plant cells and absent in animal cells. It works as a protective shield for the cell.
• Nucleus – Nucleus is the main part of the cells where ribosomes are produced. It also contains nucleoplasm having protein and DNA inside it.
• Ribosomes – Ribosomes are found inside the nucleus of cells made up of ribonucleic acid, and protein. The protein synthesis occurs in the ribosome.
• Lysosomes – These consists of hydrologic enzymes that help in the digestion of proteins like nucleic acid, lipids, carbohydrates, etc.
• Mitochondria – It produces energy and maintains the metabolic activities of the cell. It is called the powerhouse of the cell.
• Cytoskeleton – It is located inside the cytoplasm of the cell. It consists of fibers, microtubes, etc. which lend to shape the cell and are responsible for the movement of the cell.
• Golgi bodies – It is situated close to the nucleus of the cell. These are not found in plant sieve cells and human RBCs. It is disc-shaped and plainly structured.
• Endoplasmic Reticulum – It is a network of structures having small and tubular shapes. It is commonly two types – smooth and rough.

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By Team Learning Mantras