Question

The division of a bacterial cell into two daughter cells is accomplished by a protein called FtsZ. FtsZ is very similar to the tubulin subunits that form microtubules in eukaryotes. After the replicated bacterial chromosomes have moved to opposite ends of the cell, a ring of FtsZ proteins forms inside the plasma membrane in the region where the cell will divide. As the FtsZ ring constricts, the plasma membrane and bacterial cell wall fold in and eventually separate into two cells.

Plant and animal cells also require cytoskeletal proteins for cytokinesis, although the roles these proteins play differ among bacteria, plants, and animals.

 

For each space in the table, drag the appropriate label to indicate if the statement is true or false for each group of organisms.

Statement Bacteria Animals Plants

True Cells divide by constriction of a ring of protein __________ _________ ________

False The presence of a cell wall prevents the cell from ... __________ __________ _________

dividing by constriction

Tubulin subunits or tubulin-like molecules function... __________ __________ __________

in the division of the cell

 

 

Answer 1

1. Cells divide by constriction of a protein:

Bacteria: True

Animals: True

Plants: False

2. The presence of a cell wall prevents the cell from dividing by constriction

Bacteria: False (bacteria have a cell wall and still divide by constriction)

Animals: False

Plants: True

3.

Tubulin subunits or tubulin-like molecules function in the division of the cell

Bacteria: True

Animals: False

Plants: True