Verified Solution Biology Cell: The Unit of Life

Besides containing their own DNA and 70S ribosomes, what other piece of evidence strongly supports the endosymbiotic origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts?

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Solution ✔ Verified
  • ATheir ability to synthesize all proteins required for their function independently of the host cell.
  • BTheir unique double membrane structure, where the inner membrane resembles a prokaryotic membrane.
  • CTheir complete independence from the nuclear genome of the host cell for any genetic information.
  • DTheir presence in all eukaryotic cells, including obligate anaerobes.
Explanation

The double membrane structure, where the inner membrane of mitochondria and chloroplasts has a composition and proteins characteristic of prokaryotic membranes, while the outer membrane resembles eukaryotic membranes, is strong evidence for their endosymbiotic origin.

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