Question

Bacteria contain homologs of cytoskeletal filament subunits ...

A. except those of the intermediate filaments.
B. but these homologs are incapable of nucleotide binding and hydrolysis.
C. that are less diverse in their function relative to their eukaryotic counterparts.
D. that can have different functions to those of their eukaryotic counterparts.
E. that are dispensable for cell growth and proliferation.

Answer 1

Bacteria possess cytoskeletal homologs with functions that are sometimes different from their eukaryotic counterparts, indicating that these homologs are essential for bacterial cell processes like shape maintenance and motility.

Step-by-step explanation:

Bacteria are known to contain homologs of cytoskeletal filament subunits similar to those found in eukaryotic cells, including proteins homologous to actins and tubulins. Contrary to the previously held belief that bacteria lacked these complex structures, recent discoveries have highlighted the presence of a prokaryotic cytoskeleton. The MreB and FtsZ proteins are akin to the eukaryotic versions and are involved in processes such as maintaining or changing cell shape and cellular motility. However, unlike eukaryotic cells, bacteria generally do not have homologs of intermediate filaments. Additionally, cytoskeletal proteins like flagellin, which drives bacterial movement, are unique to prokaryotes, indicating a divergence in function from their eukaryotic counterparts. Thus, the correct answer here would reflect the similarity in cytoskeletal components but with potentially divergent roles, meaning option D is the most accurate. This demonstrates that homologous proteins in bacteria can have quite distinct functions from those in eukaryotic systems, proving them indispensable for processes like cell growth and proliferation.