Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components

Endosymbiotic Theory

Anatomy & Physiology

2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components

Endosymbiotic Theory

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3:41 minutes

Problem 6

Textbook Question

Consider the endosymbiosis theory for the origin of the mitochondrion. How did each endosymbiotic partner benefit from the relationship?

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the endosymbiosis theory, which suggests that mitochondria originated from free-living prokaryotes that were engulfed by a host cell.

Identify the benefits for the engulfed prokaryote: it gained protection and a stable environment within the host cell.

Identify the benefits for the host cell: it gained an efficient energy production system, as the engulfed prokaryote evolved into mitochondria capable of aerobic respiration.

Consider how this mutualistic relationship allowed for increased energy production, which supported more complex cellular functions and the evolution of eukaryotic cells.

Reflect on the evidence supporting this theory, such as the presence of mitochondrial DNA, which is similar to bacterial DNA, and the double membrane structure of mitochondria.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Endosymbiosis Theory

The endosymbiosis theory posits that certain organelles, like mitochondria, originated from free-living prokaryotic organisms that were engulfed by ancestral eukaryotic cells. This symbiotic relationship allowed the engulfed prokaryotes to live within the host cell, leading to a mutually beneficial arrangement that evolved over time into a permanent partnership.

Mutualism

Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship where both partners benefit from the interaction. In the context of endosymbiosis, the host cell provided protection and nutrients to the engulfed prokaryote, while the prokaryote contributed to the host's energy production through processes like aerobic respiration, enhancing the host's survival and efficiency.

Evolution of Eukaryotic Cells

The evolution of eukaryotic cells is marked by the incorporation of prokaryotic cells through endosymbiosis, leading to complex cellular structures. This process not only facilitated the development of mitochondria but also allowed for greater metabolic capabilities, enabling eukaryotes to thrive in diverse environments and adapt to various ecological niches.