Bacterial and Eukaryotic Cell Structure and Function

This set of flashcards covers key terms and concepts from the lecture notes on bacterial and eukaryotic cell structure and function.

Transformation

The process by which bacteria take up free DNA from the environment and integrate it into their genome.

Cytokinesis

The process of cell division that results in two daughter cells, involving the formation of a septum.

Septation

The formation of cross walls between daughter cells during cell division in bacteria.

Genus

A rank in the biological classification of organisms that classifies a group of related species.

Peptidoglycan

A polymer that makes up the bacterial cell wall, composed of sugars and amino acids.

Obligate anaerobes

Organisms that cannot survive in the presence of oxygen.

Cardinal growth temperature

The range of temperatures where organisms can grow, including minimal, maximal, and optimal temperatures.

Endospore

A resistant structure formed by some bacteria to survive hostile conditions.

Facultative anaerobes

Organisms that can grow with or without oxygen.

Opportunistic pathogens

Microbes that usually do not cause disease in healthy individuals but can cause disease in immunocompromised individuals.

Heterotrophic metabolism

The metabolic process where organisms obtain their energy from the oxidation of organic compounds.

Chlamydiae

A class of bacteria that are parasitic and live within host cells, often with a reduced genome.

Cryophiles

Organisms that thrive at low temperatures, typically below 15 degrees Celsius.

Biofilm

A complex community of microorganisms that adhere to surfaces and are encased in a self-producing matrix.

Prostheca

An extension of a bacterial cell that aids in attachment and stabilization.

Mesophiles

Microorganisms that thrive at moderate temperatures, typically between 20 to 45 degrees Celsius.

Bactoprenol

A lipid carrier molecule that transports peptidoglycan precursors across the bacterial membrane.

Sphingolipids

Lipids that play a role in signaling and are involved in the structural integrity of cell membranes.

FtsZ

A protein that polymerizes to form a Z ring, marking the site of cell division in bacteria.

Cyanobacteria

Photosynthetic bacteria that perform oxygenic photosynthesis and can produce various pigments.

Lactobacillales

An order of bacteria that are important in fermentation and have distinct metabolic pathways.