Which statement is one of the fundamental components of the modern cell theory?

Introduction / Context:
Cell theory is one of the central unifying concepts in biology. It summarises what we know about the structure and origin of cells. This question asks you to recognize a correct statement that forms part of modern cell theory. Knowing these statements is essential for understanding the basic organization of life.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Several statements are presented, some relating to genetics and others to cell structure.

• Only one accurately reflects a core principle of cell theory.

• We assume familiarity with the classic three points of cell theory.

• Spontaneous generation has been rejected by modern science.

Concept / Approach:
The widely accepted components of modern cell theory include: all living organisms are composed of one or more cells, the cell is the basic structural and functional unit of life, and all cells arise from pre existing cells. Some versions also emphasise that cells contain hereditary information which is passed from cell to cell. Among the options, the statement that all living cells arise from pre existing cells directly matches one of these classic points, originally supported by work of scientists like Rudolf Virchow.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the three central tenets of cell theory: organisms are made of cells, the cell is the basic unit of life, and cells arise from pre existing cells. Step 2: Examine option B, which states that all living cells arise from pre existing cells. This matches the third tenet exactly. Step 3: Evaluate option A. While DNA is an important genetic material, cell theory does not state that DNA is the only basis of genetic transfer. Step 4: Evaluate option C. Cells do not all contain the same organelles; for example, plant cells have chloroplasts and cell walls, which animal cells lack. Step 5: Evaluate option D. Tissues are formed from combinations of cells, but viruses are not part of tissue structure and are not cells. Step 6: Evaluate option E. The idea that cells arise spontaneously from non living matter conflicts with cell theory and has been disproved. Step 7: Therefore, the only statement that is a true component of cell theory is that all living cells arise from pre existing cells.

Verification / Alternative check:
Checking any biology textbook section on cell theory will show versions of these three points and explicitly mention that cells come from pre existing cells, not from non living material. Historical experiments such as Pasteur's Swan neck flask experiment helped disprove spontaneous generation, reinforcing this aspect of cell theory. These references confirm that option B is correct.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

DNA is the only basis of genetic transfer: Cell theory does not include this as a formal statement, and some viruses use RNA as genetic material.

All cells are composed of exactly the same organelles: Different cell types have different organelles, so this is incorrect.

Tissues are formed from combinations of cells and viruses: Viruses are not cellular components of tissues.

Cells can arise spontaneously from non living matter: This idea has been rejected and does not belong to modern cell theory.

Common Pitfalls:
A common confusion is to mix cell theory with later discoveries about DNA and genetics. While inheritance is related, cell theory focuses on cells themselves and their origin. Another pitfall is to believe in spontaneous generation due to historical ideas, but modern experiments clearly support that living cells arise only from existing cells.

Final Answer:
A fundamental component of cell theory is that All living cells arise from pre existing cells.