Microbio Midterm

A set of Q&A flashcards covering the key concepts from the Microbio Midterm Exam Study Guide notes.

What part of a phospholipid forms hydrophobic tails?

Fatty acids.

What characteristic is exhibited by viruses?

Viruses are parasitic particles that invade host cells.

Alpha helices and beta pleated sheets are examples of which protein structure level?

Secondary structure.

Cells that do not have a nucleus are traditionally called what?

Prokaryotes.

A bacterial cell exhibiting chemotaxis probably has which appendage?

Flagella.

Are Gram-negative bacteria more or less susceptible to antibiotics targeting peptidoglycan than Gram-positive bacteria?

Less susceptible.

What is the function of bacterial endospores?

Protection of genetic material during harsh conditions.

During bacterial conjugation, DNA can be transferred through a pilus from the donor to the recipient cell. What is this process called?

Conjugation.

The short, numerous appendages used by some bacterial cells for adhering to surfaces are called what?

Fimbriae.

What is the best definition of endosymbiosis?

A pre-eukaryotic cell infected by a prokaryote, and the symbiosis gave rise to modern-day eukaryotic cells.

Satellite viruses are what in relation to other viruses?

Dependent on other viruses for replication.

Why is antiviral drug therapy difficult to develop?

Viruses are obligate intracellular parasites; drugs can harm the host cell.

What is a capsid?

The protein shell that encloses a virus's genome (DNA or RNA).

Viruses that infect bacteria are called?

Bacteriophages.

Infectious protein particles are called?

Prions.

Name the five microbiology control terms listed in the notes.

Disinfection; Sterilization; Antisepsis; Sanitization; Ionization.

Which is larger, viruses or bacterial cells?

Bacterial cells are larger; viruses are very small.

What constitutes the first line of defense according to the notes?

Physical and chemical barriers (e.g., skin, slightly acidic pH, and sweat).