Parts of a

Prokaryotic Cell
Capsule: a thick polysaccharide layer outside of the cell wall. It is used for sticking cells together as a food reserve, as a protection and is often associated with pathogenic bacteria because it serves as a barrier against phagocytosis by white blood cells. Cell Wall: Made of a murein (not cellulose), which is a glycoprotein or peptidoglycan (i.e. a protein/carbohydrate complex). The cell wall maintains the overall shape of a bacterial cell. Plasma membrane: This is a lipid bilayer. There are numerous proteins moving within or upon this layer that are primarily responsible for transport of ions, nutrients and waste across the membrane. Cytoplasm: Contains all the enzymes needed for all metabolic reactions, since there are no organelles. Ribosome: Translate the genetic message in messenger RNA into the production of peptide sequences (proteins). Plasmid: They are circular, double-stranded DNA molecules capable of replication within living cells. They encode a wide varieity of genes that increase survival in adverse environmental conditions. Nucleoid: The region of the cytoplasm that contains DNA. It is not surrounded by a nuclear membrane. Flagella: This long thread like attachment is generally considered to be for movement. They have an internal protein structure that allows the flagella to actively move as a form of propulsion. Its presences tend to be associated with the pathogenicity of the bacterium.

Pili: These thread like projections are usually more numerous than the flagella. They are associated with different types of attachment. In some cases they are involved in the transfer of DNA in a process called conjuction or alternatively as a means of prevent phagocytosis, which is a ingestion of bacteria.