Question

Which of the following is a function of mesosome? (a) Cell wall formation (b) DNA replication and its distribution to daughter cells (c) Both (a) and (b) (d) None of these

Short answer

The correct answer is option (c): Both (a) and (b). Mesosomes help in cell wall formation as well as DNA replication and distribution to daughter cells.

Step-by-step solution

Evaluate Option (a)

Mesosomes aid in cell wall formation. Therefore, this statement is correct.

Evaluate Option (b)

Mesosomes also help in DNA replication and distributes DNA to daughter cells during cell division. Hence, this statement is also correct.

Evaluate Option (c)

Considering that both option (a) and option (b) are correct, we can conclude that option (c), which states both (a) and (b), is the correct answer.

Evaluate Option (d)

Option (d) suggests that none of the options are correct, but since we have already determined that option (c) is correct, we can discard this option.

Key concepts

Cell Wall Formation

The formation of a cell wall is crucial for the protection and structural integrity of a cell. Mesosomes play a significant role in this process. They are infolded regions in the bacterial cell membrane that contribute to cell wall synthesis.

Mesosomes provide a surface where enzymes essential for cell wall formation can function effectively. This is vital because the cell wall acts as a barrier, safeguarding the cell against external forces and maintaining its shape. Without a sturdy cell wall, the cell could easily succumb to harsh environments.

Another important function of the mesosome in this context is to assist with the separation of new cell walls during cell division. This ensures that each daughter cell retains its structure after division is complete. Thus, mesosomes are integral to maintaining a cell's health during and after their formation.

DNA Replication

DNA replication is a fundamental process that precedes cell division. During replication, the cell makes an exact copy of its DNA. Mesosomes, found in prokaryotic cells like bacteria, aid significantly in this process.

Mesosomes ensure that the replication of DNA is efficient by providing a scaffold where DNA replication enzymes can attach and function properly. They help in coordinating the various enzymes involved, such as DNA polymerase, to ensure that both daughter cells receive an identical copy of the genetic material.

By assisting in precise replications, mesosomes help maintain genetic stability, which is crucial for the survival and proper functioning of a cell. This function is intrinsic to ensuring that DNA is not only copied accurately but also distributed efficiently to ensure equal inheritance among daughter cells during cell division.

Cell Division

Cell division is the process by which a parent cell divides into two or more daughter cells. In bacteria, this typically occurs through a process known as binary fission. Mesosomes are believed to play a key role in cell division by anchoring the bacterial DNA to ensure it divides equitably.

During cell division, mesosomes aid in the precise distribution of DNA to each daughter cell, ensuring they each have the necessary genetic components to function correctly. This distribution is critical because it determines whether the daughter cells will survive and function post-division.

Mesosomes might also assist in the formation and segregation of the septum, the dividing wall between the two new cells. By facilitating these processes, mesosomes ensure that the division is seamless and that the resultant cells are viable and ready to perform their biological roles.