What is a characteristic of eukaryotic cells?

Eukaryotic cells are defined by the presence of a defined nucleus, which distinguishes them from prokaryotic cells that do not have a nucleus. The nucleus in eukaryotic cells houses their genetic material (DNA) and is surrounded by a nuclear membrane, providing a compartment where transcription and RNA processing can occur separately from translation. This organization allows for more complex regulation of gene expression and the possibility of larger and more intricate cellular structures.

In contrast, prokaryotic cells, which include bacteria and archaea, contain their genetic material in a nucleoid region that is not membrane-bound. This fundamental difference is one of the key features that permits eukaryotic cells to carry out more sophisticated functions and forms of life, including multicellular organisms.