Viral Biology and Microbial Diversity

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to viruses, prokaryotic and eukaryotic microorganisms, and their interactions with environments and hosts.

Prokaryotic host cell

A type of cell without a nucleus, where viral genomes may integrate without destroying the host.

Baltimore classification

A system that classifies viruses based on their genome type and replication strategy.

Lytic cycle

A viral reproduction cycle where the virus injects its genome and causes the destruction of the host cell.

Viral genome integrated

The viral genetic material incorporated into the host genome.

Innate immunity

The natural defenses of Bacteria and Archaea against viral infections.

Viral factories

Membrane-bound structures in host cells that enhance virion production and provide protection.

T4 bacteriophage

A model organism used to study the lytic cycle of viruses, specifically targeting E. coli.

Engineered viruses

Viruses modified to carry antigens from pathogenic viruses to provoke an immune response.

Archaea

A domain of single-celled microorganisms that are distinct from bacteria and have a unique set of characteristics.

CRISPR system

A prokaryotic adaptive immune mechanism that protects against foreign DNA.

Transposable element

A segment of DNA that can move from one location to another within the genome.

Zoonotic disease

Diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans.

Antigenic shift

A significant change in a virus that enables it to evade the immune system, often due to genetic reassortment.

Photosynthesis in Bacteria

The biological process of converting light energy into chemical energy, believed to have originated in Bacteria.

Biofilms

Complex communities of microorganisms adhering to surfaces, which can provide protection and enhance survival.

Horizontal gene transfer

The process by which bacteria can transfer genetic material between individuals, contributing to genetic diversity.

Secondary endosymbiosis

A process in which a eukaryotic cell engulfs another eukaryotic cell that has already undergone symbiosis.

Diatom exoskeleton

A siliceous structure that provides protection and contributes to the fossil record of these organisms.

Heterotrophic partner in lichens

The fungal component of lichens that provides structure and access to nutrients.

Filarial parasites

Helminths belonging to specific phyla that can cause diseases in humans through vector transmission.

Apicoplasts

Reduced plastids in Apicomplexans that provide unique metabolic functions.

Nutritional modes of Euglena

Modes including both autotrophic and heterotrophic feeding, supported by specialized organelles.