Question

In bacteria, which structures serve as mitochondria?

• A. Nucleoid
• B. Ribosomes
• C. Cell Wall
• D. Mesosomes

Answer 1

The correct option is D

Mesosomes

The correct option is D.

Explanation of the correct option:

1. Mesosomes are the infoldings of the bacterial cell membrane.
2. These structures are hypothesized to be similar to the mitochondria found in eukaryotes.
3. Mesosomes function in DNA replication and guide the distribution of replicated bacterial chromosomes to two daughter cells during cell division.
4. Additionally, they contain enzymes for aerobic respiration and expand the surface area for it.

Explanation of the incorrect options:

Option A:

The nucleoid is an irregularly shaped area within the prokaryotic cell that houses all or almost all of the genetic materials.

Option B:

The location of protein synthesis in the cell is the ribosome, which is an intercellular structure made up of both RNA and protein.

Option C:

1. A cell wall is a structural layer that surrounds a variety of cell types just outside the cell membrane.
2. It works as a filtration mechanism as well as providing structural support and protection to all the cells.

Final answer: In bacteria, Mesosomes serve as mitochondria.