Introduction to Microbiology: Key Concepts and Historical Perspectives

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts from the lecture on microbiology, including definitions of important scientific terms and historical developments in the field.

Microbiome

A community of microorganisms living in a specific environment, particularly within a host.

Prokaryote

A unicellular organism that lacks a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles, includes bacteria and archaea.

Eukaryote

An organism whose cells contain a nucleus and other structures enclosed within membranes, includes protists, fungi, plants, and animals.

Pathogen

An organism that causes disease, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.

Germ Theory

The theory that diseases are caused by microorganisms, formulated by Louis Pasteur and expanded by Robert Koch.

Agar

A gelatinous substance derived from red algae, used to culture microorganisms.

Biofilm

A complex cluster of microorganisms adhering to a surface, often encased in a protective matrix.

Emerging Diseases

Diseases that are newly identified or previously unrecognized that are spreading among humans for the first time.

Reemerging Diseases

Diseases that had been controlled but are showing a resurgence, often due to factors like antibiotic resistance.

Antibiotic Resistance

The ability of bacteria to resist the effects of antibiotics, often due to genetic mutations and the acquisition of resistance genes.

Microbial Ecology

The study of microbial interactions with each other and their environments, critical for understanding ecosystems.

Vaccination

The administration of a vaccine to stimulate an individual's immune system to develop adaptive immunity against a pathogen.

Pasteurization

A process of heating food and liquids to kill pathogens and extend shelf life, developed by Louis Pasteur.

Infectious Disease Mortality

Global deaths caused by infectious diseases, accounting for about 15 million deaths annually.

Bioterrorism

The intentional use of biological agents to cause harm or fear in civilian populations.