Assume that you isolated a unicellular, non-nucleated cell from a deep-sea vent. Select the statement that is least likely regarding the cell you found. (NCLEX/HESI/TEAS)
a. The cell is a prokaryote.
b. The cell is a fungus or yeast.
c. The cell is an archaea.
d. The cell is not a pathogen.
e. The cell is in Domain Archaea.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the characteristics of the cell: unicellular and non-nucleated, which are typical of prokaryotic cells.
2. Recall that prokaryotic cells include bacteria and archaea, which are both unicellular and lack a nucleus.
3. Consider the environment: deep-sea vents are extreme environments where archaea are commonly found due to their ability to survive in harsh conditions.
4. Evaluate each statement: a) Prokaryotes include bacteria and archaea, so this is likely true. b) Fungi and yeast are eukaryotic, having a nucleus, so this is unlikely. c) Archaea are prokaryotes, so this is likely true. d) Pathogenicity is not determined by cell structure alone, so this is uncertain. e) Archaea belong to Domain Archaea, so this is likely true.
5. Select the statement that is least likely: Statement b, as fungi and yeast are eukaryotic and have a nucleus, which contradicts the cell's description as non-nucleated.

Key Concepts

Prokaryotes

Prokaryotes are unicellular organisms that lack a defined nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. They are classified into two main domains: Bacteria and Archaea. The absence of a nucleus is a key characteristic that distinguishes prokaryotes from eukaryotes, which do have a nucleus. Understanding this distinction is crucial for analyzing the nature of the isolated cell.

Domain Archaea

Domain Archaea consists of prokaryotic organisms that are often found in extreme environments, such as deep-sea vents. They have unique biochemical and genetic properties that differentiate them from Bacteria. Archaea can be extremophiles, and their cell membranes and metabolic pathways are distinct, making them a significant area of study in microbiology.

Pathogenicity

Pathogenicity refers to the ability of an organism to cause disease. While many bacteria are known pathogens, not all prokaryotes are harmful. In the context of the question, understanding whether the isolated cell could be a pathogen is essential, as it influences the interpretation of its ecological role and potential interactions with other organisms.