Exam 3 Study Guide

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts from the lecture notes on microbial control, immune response, and related topics for the Exam 3 study guide.

Sterilization

The process of eliminating all forms of microbial life, including bacterial spores.

Disinfection

The reduction of the number of pathogenic microorganisms to a level at which they no longer pose a threat to health.

Decontamination

The process of removing or neutralizing contaminants that may cause harm.

Pasteurization

A heat treatment process that eliminates pathogenic microorganisms in food and beverages.

Antibiotic Resistance

The ability of bacteria to resist the effects of medication that once destroyed them.

Selective Toxicity

A characteristic of medications that allows them to target specific types of cells without harming host cells.

Cidal vs. Static

Cidal refers to agents that kill microorganisms, while static refers to agents that inhibit their growth.

Innate Immunity

The first line of defense against pathogens, consisting of physical and chemical barriers.

Adaptive Immunity

The immune response that is developed after exposure to a specific pathogen, involving B and T lymphocytes.

Phagocytosis

The process by which certain cells engulf and digest microorganisms and cellular debris.

Erythrocytes

Red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen in the blood.

Leukocytes

White blood cells involved in protecting the body against infection.

Complement System

A group of proteins that work together to destroy pathogens as part of the immune response.

Fever

An increase in body temperature that is typically caused by an infection and serves as a defense mechanism.

Vaccination

The administration of a vaccine to stimulate the body's immune response against specific pathogens.

Antibodies

Proteins produced by B cells that specifically target and neutralize antigens.

Clonal Selection

The process by which specific B or T cells are selected for activation and proliferation in response to an antigen.

Lymphatic System

A network that helps transport lymph, a fluid containing infection-fighting white blood cells, throughout the body.

Cytokines

Signaling molecules that mediate and regulate immunity, inflammation, and hematopoiesis.

Pathogen-Associated Molecular Patterns (PAMPs)

Molecules associated with groups of pathogens that are recognized by the immune system.

Interferons

Proteins produced by host cells in response to viral infections that help inhibit virus replication.

Microbial Death

The irreversible loss of reproductive ability of a microbial population.

Serology

The study of blood serum, particularly in relation to the presence of antibodies and antigens.