The nucleoid is an irregularly shaped region found in prokaryotic cells that contains the cell's genetic material, primarily in the form of a single circular DNA molecule. Unlike the nucleus of eukaryotic cells, the nucleoid is not enclosed by a membrane, allowing the DNA to interact directly with the cytoplasm. This topic is important in the NEET syllabus , especially in the context of cell biology and genetics.
Difference Between Nucleus and Nucleoid | ||
---|---|---|
Feature | Nucleus | Nucleoid |
Structure | Well organized and large | Small and poorly organized |
Organisms | Found in eukaryotic cells | Found in prokaryotic cells |
Chromosomes | Comprises several chromosomes | Comprises a single chromosome |
Shape | Spherical shaped organelle | Irregular in shape |
Membrane | Enclosed by a double membrane (nuclear membrane) | Not surrounded by any membrane |
Nucleoplasm/Nucleolus | Nucleoplasm and nucleolus are present | Nucleoplasm and nucleolus are absent |
Q1. The genetic material of prokaryotic cells is called-
Q2. What is the name of the region where double-stranded single-circular DNA is found in the prokaryotic cell?
NEET Exam Important Links | |
---|---|
NEET Biology Syllabus | NEET Biology Diagrams |
NEET Biology MCQ | NEET Biology Chapter wise Weightage |
NEET Biology Notes | NEET Previous Year Question papers |