1. Difference in Location

Prokaryotic DNA:

Located directly within the cytoplasm without a surrounding membrane, as there is no defined nucleus. This region is called the nucleoid.

Eukaryotic DNA:

Contained in the nucleus (surrounded by a nuclear membrane). Additionally, eukaryotic cells have mitochondrial DNA (and chloroplast DNA in plants).

2. Difference in Appearance and Stability

Prokaryotic DNA:

Found in circular, non-chromosomal form. Present in DNA-protein complexes within the nucleoid, not associated with histones but with nucleoid-associated proteins (NAPs).

Eukaryotic DNA:

Packed into linear chromosomes, coiled around histones to form nucleosomes, further compacted by supercoiling and folding.

3. Difference in Structure

Prokaryotic DNA:

Supercoiled and compacted by NAPs into looped structures. Contains fewer introns (non-coding DNA), reducing mutation susceptibility.

Eukaryotic DNA:

More compact and has more non-coding DNA (introns), which makes it more mutation-prone. However, efficient DNA repair mechanisms provide protection.

4. Difference in DNA Replication Rate

Prokaryotic DNA:

Replicates faster (≈2000 nucleotides/sec). A single circular chromosome with one origin of replication allows rapid cell division.

Eukaryotic DNA:

Replicates slower (≈100 nucleotides/sec). Replication takes longer and DNA damage repair during replication is slower.

5. Difference in DNA Origin of Replication Points

Prokaryotic DNA:

A single replication origin on each chromosome; replication occurs in the cytoplasm with one replication fork and bubble.

Eukaryotic DNA:

Multiple origins of replication on each chromosome, allowing simultaneous replication at hundreds to thousands of sites.

6. Difference in DNA Forms

Prokaryotic DNA:

Double-stranded and circular; may include plasmids. Prokaryotic cells contain less DNA overall.

Eukaryotic DNA:

Double-stranded and linear. Ends of chromosomes have telomeres that protect against deterioration.

7. Difference in Stability

Prokaryotic DNA:

Typically GC-rich, making it more stable due to stronger hydrogen bonding (G-C has 3 bonds).

Eukaryotic DNA:

Higher AT content makes it comparatively less stable than prokaryotic DNA.