Basics of Bacterial Growth and Nutrition

These flashcards cover the key concepts of bacterial growth, reproduction, nutrition, culturing methods, and specific bacterial characteristics and diseases.

What is the first stage of binary fission in bacteria?

Chromosome (DNA) is replicated, and the cell elongates.

What are Fts proteins responsible for in bacterial cell division?

They interact to form a cell division apparatus known as a divisome.

How does the Ftsz protein initiate cell division?

It forms a ring around the center of the cell to coordinate the division process.

What occurs during the exponential growth phase of microbial growth?

The population of viable cells increases rapidly.

What are the common essential nutrients required for bacterial growth?

Carbon, nitrogen, hydrogen, sulfur, potassium, oxygen, iron, magnesium, and calcium.

What is selective media in bacterial culture?

Media that inhibits the growth of one group of organisms while permitting the growth of another.

How does differential media help in identifying bacteria?

It contains additives that cause observable color changes when specific biochemical reactions occur.

What is the optimal temperature range for mesophiles?

They grow best within a temperature range of 25-40°C.

What are obligate anaerobes?

Bacteria that can only survive in the absence of free oxygen.

What is the function of the exotoxin produced by C. tetani?

It blocks the release of neurotransmitters that inhibit neuron activity, causing sustained muscle contraction.

What is the primary reservoir for Borrelia burgdorferi?

Mice.

What treatment options are used for C. difficile infections according to the CDC?

Antibiotics such as Metronidazole and Vancomycin.

What is the significance of endospores in bacteria?

They are resistant dormant structures that help bacteria survive adverse environmental conditions.

Which bacterium is known to cause botulism and what is its neurotoxin's action?

C. botulinum, its neurotoxin binds to motor neurons and prevents signal transmission, leading to paralysis.

What does enrichment media do in bacterial culture?

It contains additives that enhance the growth of specific organisms.

What are the symptoms of Lyme disease caused by Borrelia burgdorferi?

Fever, malaise, muscle and joint pain, and erythema migrans.

What type of bacteria are C. difficile and how do they affect the bowel?

C. difficile is a toxin-producing bacterium that leads to inflammation and destruction of cells in the colon.

What is a major challenge when prescribing antibiotics in hospitals?

30-50% of antibiotics prescribed are unnecessary or incorrect.

What happens during the sporulation process in bacteria?

A protective endospore is formed from nucleoid surrounded by membranes and peptidoglycan.