Microbial Genetics

These flashcards cover key concepts related to microbial genetics, including structures, processes, mutations, and clinical relevance.

What does microbial genetics study?

Microbial genetics studies how microorganisms inherit traits, adapt, and evolve.

What is a key clinical relevance of microbial genetics?

It helps understand antibiotic resistance and pathogen virulence.

How are chromosomes organized in prokaryotes?

Prokaryotes usually have a single, circular chromosome.

In eukaryotes, how is DNA organized?

Eukaryotes have multiple, linear chromosomes.

What pairs with Thymine in DNA?

Adenine (A) pairs with Thymine (T).

What is the primary structure of DNA?

DNA has a double helix structure with two strands twisted.

What type of bond stabilizes the DNA double helix?

Hydrogen bonds stabilize the DNA double helix.

How do DNA strands orient in terms of directions?

DNA strands are oriented 5' to 3' and 3' to 5'.

What is a gene?

A segment of DNA coding for protein or RNA, and a unit of heredity.

What is the central dogma of genetics?

DNA is transcribed to RNA, which is translated into Protein.

What enzyme synthesizes new strands during DNA replication?

DNA polymerase synthesizes new strands.

What are the differences in replication between prokaryotes and eukaryotes?

Prokaryotes replicate in the cytoplasm with a single circular chromosome, while eukaryotes replicate in the nucleus with multiple linear chromosomes.

What synthesizes RNA during transcription?

RNA polymerase synthesizes RNA.

How do translation processes differ in prokaryotes and eukaryotes?

Prokaryotes have 70S ribosomes, while eukaryotes have 80S ribosomes.

What are the types of mutations?

Types of mutations include point mutation, silent mutation, and frameshift mutation.

What can cause mutations?

Causes of mutations include spontaneous errors, mutagens, and carcinogens.

What is horizontal gene transfer?

It refers to the uptake of naked DNA from the environment between organisms.

What is an example of clinical relevance of mutations?

Mutations can cause drug resistance, such as rifampin resistance in tuberculosis.

What contributes to antibiotic resistance in bacteria?

Horizontal gene transfer spreads resistance, such as MRSA acquiring resistance genes.

What is the significance of microbial genetics in medicine?

It helps understand pathogen behavior, resistance, and treatment approaches.