In prokaryotic cells, DNA molecules are short, circular and not associated with proteins
Prokaryotes are simple cells with no nucleus, such as bacteria. Their DNA forms a small, closed loop and floats freely in the cell, unattached to any proteins.
Real World
When antibiotic resistance genes spread between Staphylococcus aureus bacteria via plasmids — small, circular DNA separate from the main chromosome — the result is MRSA, a superbug that hospitalises thousands of patients each year in the UK.
Exam Focus
State three distinct features of prokaryotic DNA (short, circular, not associated with histones) when asked to 'describe' — one feature alone will not gain full marks.
Evaluation Scaffold
A four-step framework for high-quality evaluation. Use this for 'assess', 'evaluate', and 'to what extent' questions.
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