PYQ-NEET Practice Exam 2025 - Free NEET Practice Questions and Study Guide

Eukaryotic cells are characterized by having a membrane-bound nucleus, which houses their genetic material. This distinction is key in cell biology as it allows for the organization of DNA into chromosomes and the regulation of gene expression within the nucleus, separate from the cytoplasm. In eukaryotic cells, the nucleus serves as a control center, facilitating processes such as transcription and replication distinct from other cellular activities.

This feature is a significant difference compared to prokaryotic cells, which lack a defined nucleus. Prokaryotes have their genetic material located in the cytoplasm in a region called the nucleoid, where it is not separated by a membrane.

While red blood cells and stem cells are specific types of cells, they fall under the broader category of eukaryotic cells and thus also possess a membrane-bound nucleus. However, the focus on cell type being classified as eukaryotic is the reason why this category is chosen as the correct answer.