NEET2026BiologyChapterActual
In prokaryotes, the plasma membrane extends into the cell to form special membranous structures that can be in the form of vesicles, tubules, and lamellae. Which of the following is not a function of these extensions?
Options
- AAssisting in cell wall formation
- BFacilitating DNA replication and distribution to daughter cells
- CConferring motility to the bacterial cell
- DIncreasing the surface area of the plasma membrane and enzymatic content
Correct answer
C. Conferring motility to the bacterial cell
Step-by-step solution
The special membranous structures formed by the extension of the plasma membrane into the cell in prokaryotes are called mesosomes. These extensions are in the form of vesicles, tubules, and lamellae. The functions of mesosomes include assisting in cell wall formation, DNA replication and distribution to daughter cells, respiration, secretion processes, and increasing the surface area of the plasma membrane and enzymatic content. Conferring motility to the bacterial cell is the function of flagella, not mesosomes.