What are permanent features of a bacterial cell?

[sameeralord]

Out of these I mean

1. Capsule
2. Cell wall
3. Flagella
4. Nucleus
5. Plasmid


Bacteria don't have a definite nucleus, I'm thinking it is cell wall that is a permanent feature. Am I right!

 

[Ryan_m_b]

Is this a homework question?

 

[mishrashubham]

Capsule, nucleus and flagella can be immediately eliminated. That leaves cell wall and plasmid. And I know that mycoplasma don't possesses a cell wall. Technically all bacteria can have plasmids (and most do) but they are not essential for the survival of a cell (in the way cell membranes are for example). So I wouldn't call it a permanent feature.

Is this a homework question?

Looks like it. Probably needs to be moved.

 

[bobze]

Is this a homework question?

Looks like it. Probably needs to be moved.

No, he's studying for boards.

Mish is correct, just the cell wall.

Capsule expression is controlled by genes which receive environmental feedback, as are flagella (though you should note, that some bacteria are "permanently" motile through expression of a flagella, others it is inducible as a virulence factor).

Prokaryotes are anucleate.

And plasmids aren't a permanent structure.

As a side note Sameer, you're prepping for USMLE step one correct? Are you taking it outside the US?

Also, not sure if its available where you're at, but certainly online, you need to a get a copy of First-Aid for Step 1 ASAP if you don't already have it. You should use it as you are studying topics and make notes in it, etc. Great book, can't stress it enough. Most US med students comments about First-Aid was "I wish I would have started using it in first year of medical school".

Best of luck.

 

[LudusRex]

I can confirm that the permanent features of a bacterial cell include the capsule, cell wall, flagella, and plasmid. These structures are essential for the survival and function of bacteria. However, it is important to note that bacteria do not have a true nucleus, but they do have a nucleoid region where their genetic material is located. This region is not enclosed by a membrane, making it different from a nucleus found in eukaryotic cells. Therefore, the cell wall is considered to be the main permanent feature of a bacterial cell, providing structural support and protection for the cell.