Lecture 1. Bacteriology I. Sandra Flashcards
(20 cards)
What is microbiology?
The study of organisms and agents too small to be seen by the unaided eye (i.e. < 1 mm)
Microbiology involves techniques for the isolation, culture, and study of microorganisms.
Who is considered the ‘Father of microbiology’?
Anthonie van Leeuwenhoek
He published drawings of bacteria in the human mouth in 1684 and created the first compound microscope.
What are some key themes covered in microbiology courses at UoS?
Diversity in the microbial world, impact of microorganisms on the environment, microbial biofilms, methods for studying microbial populations, application of microbiology principles
The course includes both medical and environmental themes.
What is the estimated number of viruses on Earth?
1 x 10^31 viruses
If laid end to end, they would stretch for 100 million light years.
What is the ratio of bacterial cells to body cells in humans?
Approximately 10^14 bacterial cells to 10^13 body cells
Recent work has suggested a 50:50 ratio.
What do normal microbiota provide to the human body?
A protective layer and produce compounds, like vitamin K
E. coli in the gut helps kill pathogens such as Salmonella, Shigella, and Clostridium.
How do bacteria cause disease?
By disrupting cell physiology or producing toxins
Examples include leprosy, syphilis, tetanus, and botulism.
What is the significance of microbial biofilms?
They play a role in the environment and in infection
Biofilms can be found in various habitats and can impact human health.
Fill in the blank: Microorganisms evolved as the first forms of life on Earth approximately ______ years ago.
1.5 billion
What is the role of microbiology in food industry?
Understanding fermentation and food preservation
Food microbiology is crucial for safety and quality in food production.
True or False: Half of all diseases are caused by bacteria.
True
What is microbial ecology concerned with?
Understanding diversity, global nutrient cycling, and disease
It also explores potential solutions to environmental problems.
What is the estimated number of microorganisms we breathe in daily?
Between 100,000 to 1 million microorganisms
This includes over 1,000 species, with about 725 always present in the air.
What is the purpose of testing scientific hypotheses in microbiology?
To analyze results and discuss outcomes in light of current knowledge
This includes critical evaluation of both self-generated and published literature.
What are the two types of toxins produced by bacteria?
Exotoxin and endotoxin
Toxins can disrupt normal cellular functions and lead to disease.
What are the main components of the microbial world studied in microbiology?
Bacteria, archaea, viruses, fungi
These organisms have significant roles in various processes, including disease and environmental functions.
What are some learning outcomes for students completing the microbiology course?
Understanding microbial diversity, evaluating scientific output, demonstrating effective communication skills
Students will also learn to design experiments and analyze scientific data.
Fill in the blank: Microbial growth in broth becomes ______.
turbid
Where are microorganisms found in the human body?
Localized to specific regions such as nose, throat, mouth, skin, large intestine
Microbes are not uniformly distributed throughout the body.
What is the function of bacteria like E. coli in the gut?
To provide a protective layer and produce vitamins
E. coli can also kill certain pathogens, maintaining gut health.
