Discussion Response Unit 3

Introduction
Baluška et al. (2004, pp.21-22) examined the evolution of eukaryotic cells from prokaryotic
organisms has been a subject of significant scientific inquiry, with various theories proposed
to explain this complex process. One prominent theory, endosymbiosis, suggests that
eukaryotic organelles, such as mitochondria and chloroplasts, originated from free-living
prokaryotes engulfed by ancestral eukaryotic cells. While endosymbiosis is widely accepted,
alternative theories have been proposed, and evaluating their merits requires an
examination of supporting evidence.
One alternative theory posits that eukaryotic cells evolved through gradual processes of
cellular complexity without the need for endosymbiotic events. This theory emphasizes
incremental changes in cellular structures over time, proposing that eukaryotic
characteristics emerged through a series of genetic and structural modifications. Another
hypothesis suggests a symbiotic relationship between prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms
without complete engulfment, allowing for a more gradual integration of cellular
components.
The most probable theory, in my view, is endosymbiosis. This perspective is substantiated
by compelling evidence, including the striking similarities between organelles and free-living
prokaryotes, such as the double membrane structure of mitochondria mirroring that of
certain bacteria. (Osteryoung & Pyke, 2014, pp.3-5) Additionally, the presence of circular
DNA within mitochondria and chloroplasts, akin to bacterial DNA, supports the idea of these
organelles having a distinct evolutionary origin.
Furthermore, comparative genomics has revealed shared genetic material between
organelles and specific groups of bacteria. The endosymbiotic theory also explains the
autonomy of these organelles, as they retain their own genetic material and can replicate
independently of the host cell.

Conclusion
In conclusion, while alternative theories exist, the endosymbiotic theory stands out as the
most plausible explanation for the evolution of eukaryotic cells. The convergence of
molecular, structural, and genetic evidence provides a compelling case for the
endosymbiotic origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts within eukaryotic cells. As our
understanding of molecular biology advances, ongoing research continues to reinforce the
robustness of the endosymbiotic theory in explaining the complex evolution of eukaryotic
cells.
 Discussion Response Unit 3

References
Baluška, F., Volkmann, D., & Barlow, P. W. (2004). Eukaryotic Cells and their Cell Bodies: Cell

Theory Revised. Annals of Botany, 94(1), 9–32. https://doi.org/10.1093/aob/mch109

Osteryoung, K. W., & Pyke, K. (2014). Division and dynamic morphology of plastids. Annual

Review of Plant Biology, 65(1), 443–472. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-arplant-

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