MCB2000 Module 1 Lecture Notes: Introduction to Microbiology

Flashcards covering key concepts from the Introduction to Microbiology lecture, focusing on the microbial world and its impact.

What is the general size of microorganisms?

Generally less than 1 mm, but some are macroscopic.

What are the major environments where microbes are found?

Gut, Skin, Atmosphere, Soil, Ocean, Sediments deep beneath the seafloor, etc.

List the beneficial functions of microbes.

Decompose organic waste, generate oxygen, produce chemicals (ethanol, acetone, vitamins), produce fermented foods, produce products for manufacturing and disease treatment.

What is the microbiome?

A group of microbes that live stably on/in the human body, helping to maintain health, prevent pathogen growth, and train the immune system.

What are the main types of microorganisms?

Bacteria, Archaea, Fungi, Protozoa, Algae, Viruses.

What are the three domains of microorganisms?

Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya.

What are key characteristics of Archaea?

Lack peptidoglycan, often extremophiles (halophiles, thermophiles), methanotrophs and methanogens.

What is Mycology?

The study of fungi; they are chemoheterotrophs that decompose organic matter.

What are some key characteristics of protozoa?

Unicellular eukaryotes found in water and soil with animal-like nutrition; some are human and animal pathogens.

What is spontaneous generation?

That life arises from nonliving matter

What is biogenesis?

That living cells arise only from preexisting living cells

What are the three areas that Pasteur contributed to Microbiology

Fermentation, disproving spontaneous generation, and pasteurization

What is fermentation?

The microbial conversion of sugar to alcohol in the absence of air.

What is pasteurization?

The application of high heat for a short time to kill harmful bacteria in beverages.

Who advocated handwashing to prevent transmission of puerperal fever?

Ignaz Semmelweis

Who created a vaccination for smallpox?

Edward Jenner

Who discovered that a bacterium causes anthrax?

Robert Koch

Who discovered the first antibiotic, penicillin?

Alexander Fleming

What are the main branches of Microbiology?

Bacteriology, Mycology, Parasitology, Virology, Immunology, and Microbial ecology

What is biotechnology?

The use of microbes for practical applications, such as producing foods and chemicals.

What is microbial ecology?

The study of the relationship between microorganisms and their environment

What are some beneficial activities of microorganisms?

Sewage treatment, bioremediation, composting, insect pest control, and recycling vital elements.

What is normal microbiota?

Microbes normally present in and on the human body that prevent growth of pathogens and produce growth factors.

What are biofilms?

Microbes attach to solid surfaces and grow into masses, causing infections and are often resistant to antibiotics.

What are emerging infectious diseases (EIDs)?

New diseases and diseases increasing in incidence.