Answer
Mesosomes in Prokaryotic Cells
🔬 What Are Mesosomes?
Mesosomes are specialized, convoluted infoldings of the plasma membrane found in prokaryotic cells (like bacteria). They perform several functions in the absence of membrane-bound organelles, similar to how organelles function in eukaryotic cells.
🧪 Functions of Mesosomes
- Cell Wall Formation: Involved in synthesizing and organizing the cell wall during binary fission.
- DNA Replication: Help in anchoring and distributing bacterial DNA to daughter cells.
- Respiration: Provide an increased surface area for respiratory enzymes (similar to mitochondria).
⚠️ Scientific Note
Some researchers believe mesosomes may be artifacts of electron microscopy preparation. However, they are still widely discussed for their proposed roles in bacterial physiology.
📊 Summary Table
| Function | Description |
|---|---|
| Cell Wall Formation | Helps during cell division by aiding in cell wall synthesis. |
| DNA Replication | Anchors DNA and ensures proper replication and segregation. |
| Respiration | Provides surface for enzymes involved in energy production. |