A eukaryotic cell (left) has membrane-enclosed DNA, which forms a structure called the nucleus (located at center of the eukaryotic cell; note the purple DNA enclosed in the pink nucleus). A typical eukaryotic cell also has additional membrane-bound organelles of varying shapes and sizes.

Do eukaryotic cells have DNA?

Eukaryotic chromosomes consist of DNA tightly wound around clusters of histone proteins. In general, eukaryotic cells contain a lot more genetic material than prokaryotic cells. For example, each human cell has around 2m, or 3 billion base pairs, of DNA that must be compacted to fit within the nucleus.

Do prokaryotes have DNA?

The DNA in prokaryotes is contained in a central area of the cell called the nucleoid, which is not surrounded by a nuclear membrane. Many prokaryotes also carry small, circular DNA molecules called plasmids, which are distinct from the chromosomal DNA and can provide genetic advantages in specific environments.