Microbiology - Bacterial Cell Structure and Function

Flashcards covering key terms related to bacterial cell structure and function in microbiology.

Glycocalyx

A substance that surrounds the cell membrane, providing protection and helping in adherence.

Flagellum

A long, whip-like structure that helps in bacterial movement.

Peptidoglycan

A major component of the bacterial cell wall, providing structural support.

Endospore

A dormant, tough, and non-reproductive structure formed by some bacteria as a resistance mechanism.

Binary fission

The main method of bacterial cell division, where one cell divides into two genetically identical cells.

Biofilm

A complex aggregation of microorganisms growing on a solid substrate.

Cytoplasm

The jelly-like substance within the cell membrane that contains organelles and is the site of numerous metabolic reactions.

Gram-positive

Bacteria that retain the crystal violet stain used in the Gram staining technique; characterized by a thick peptidoglycan layer.

Gram-negative

Bacteria that do not retain the crystal violet stain and are characterized by a thin peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane.

Fimbriae

Short, hair-like structures that aid in bacterial adhesion to surfaces.

Pili

Hair-like appendages that facilitate bacterial conjugation and attachment to surfaces.

Active transport

The process of moving substances against their concentration gradient, requiring energy.

Osmosis

The diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane.

Mutation

A change in the DNA sequence that can lead to variations in organisms.

Transduction

The process through which DNA is transferred from one bacterium to another by a virus.

Transformation

The uptake and incorporation of free DNA from the environment by a bacterial cell.

Conjugation

The transfer of genetic material between bacteria through direct contact, often via a pilus.

Operon

A cluster of genes under the control of a single promoter, found in prokaryotes.

Antibiotic resistance

The ability of bacteria to withstand the effects of an antibiotic.

Transposon

A mobile genetic element that can change its position within the genome.

Pathogen

A microorganism that can cause disease.

Antimicrobial

Substances that kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms.