Bacterial Structure and Function

Flashcards covered key vocabulary terms related to bacterial structure and function, including prokaryotic characteristics, biomass, and cellular mechanisms.

S-layer

A protective layer found in some bacteria, consisting of protein or glycoprotein.

Fimbriae

Fine hair-like bristles on the cell surface that aid in adhesion to other cells.

Outer Membrane

An extra membrane composed of lipopolysaccharides that controls the flow of materials and can be toxic to mammals.

Capsule (Slime layer)

Coating of molecules external to the cell wall, providing protection, adhesion, and receptor functions.

Inclusion/Granule

Stored nutrients within a bacterial cell.

Plasmid

A small, double-stranded DNA molecule that contains extra genes.

Flagellum

Specialized appendage attached to bacteria that provides motility through rotation.

Prokaryotic

Cells that lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles; DNA is located in nucleoid.

Binary Fission

A method of asexual reproduction in which a single organism divides into two parts, each with potential to grow into a new organism.

Endospore

A resistant form of bacteria that can survive extreme environmental conditions; produced by some Gram-positive bacteria.

Vegetative Cell

A metabolically active and growing phase of bacterial life.

Sporulation

The process of endospore formation in response to adverse environmental conditions.

Cytoplasm

The water-based solution within the cell where metabolic processes occur.

Ribosome (70s, 80s)

Cellular machinery made of proteins and RNA for protein synthesis; 70s is typical for prokaryotes and 80s for eukaryotes.

Peptidoglycan

A polymer that makes up the structural component of the cell wall in bacteria.

Chemotaxis

The movement of an organism in response to a chemical stimulus.

Phototaxis

The movement of an organism in response to light.