General Flashcards
(10 cards)
Under what conditions are secondary metabolites produced?
During the stationary phase or under stress, when nutrients are limited or environmental conditions demand survival mechanisms.
How do primary metabolites differ from secondary metabolites?
Primary metabolites are essential for growth and reproduction (e.g., amino acids), while secondary metabolites are non-essential but provide survival advantages (e.g., antibiotics).
Why do bacteria and fungi produce secondary metabolites?
For defense (antibiotics), communication (quorum sensing), competition (toxins), and environmental adaptation.
Name three examples of bacterial secondary metabolites.
Streptomycin, erythromycin, and rifamycin.
Name three examples of fungal secondary metabolites.
Aflatoxins, penicillin, and ergot alkaloids.
How does quorum sensing relate to secondary metabolite production?
Quorum sensing regulates secondary metabolite production based on microbial population density and environmental signals.
What metabolic pathways generate secondary metabolites?
Polyketide synthesis, nonribosomal peptide synthesis, and the shikimate pathway.
What is the purpose of antibiotics as secondary metabolites?
To inhibit or kill competing microorganisms in the environment.
What leads to the structural diversity of secondary metabolites?
Enzymatic modifications like methylation, acetylation, and glycosylation diversify metabolite structures.
What environmental factors influence secondary metabolite production?
Temperature, pH, nutrient availability, and presence of competing organisms.
