Cellular Biology
What do we call long chains of amino acids?
Polypeptides
What are the two things you must wear when doing a lab?
1) Goggles
2) Lab apprint
What is the definition of a spore?
Formed by some bacteria as a means of survival.
What is the definition of a pathogen?
A bacteria, or virus or other microorganism that can cause a disease.
State two functions of lipids.
Lipids serve as energy storage molecules in cells, and play a crucial role in cell membrane structure and function.
What is the term: A cell that contains a single set of chromosomes.
Haploid
Why do scientists use microscopes in microbiology, and what does a microscope help them observe?
Scientists use microscopes in microbiology to observe and study microorganisms that are too small to be seen with the naked eye. Microscopes magnify these tiny structures, enabling scientists to examine details of microorganisms, structure, and behavior.
What is a hot plate and why is it commonly used in labs?
A hot plate is a piece of lab equipment that provides a heated surface for various purposes. It typically consists of a flat surface, often made of metal that can be heated to different temperatures. Hot plates are commonly used in labs for tasks like heating solutions, conducting experiments that require controlled temperature conditions. They offer a stable and controlled source of heat.
Definition of this term is: The liquid product of inflammation, usually yellow in colour
Pus
What are the three functions of proteins?
Proteins serve as structural components of cells and tissues, play a key role in enzymatic reactions, and function as signalling molecules in various cellular processes.
Define the term: "glycolysis"
"Glycolysis" is the metabolic pathway that breaks down glucose into pyruvate, producing ATP and NADH.
What do you need to do before viewing a specimen at 100x on a microscope?
1) Clean the Lens
2) Focused at lower magnification
3) Adjust the Lighting
4) Secure the Specimen
Describe the role of the immune system in defending the body against microbial infections.
The immune system serves as the body's mechanism against microbial infections. It comprises various components, including white blood cells, antibodies, and complement proteins. When a pathogen enters the body, the immune system recognizes it as a foreign object and mounts a response. This response involves the activation of immune cells, the production of antibodies specific to pathogen, and the elimination of the invading microorganisms. Memory cells are also formed, providing long-term protection by recognizing and responding more rapidly to previously encountered pathogens. The immune system plays a crucial role in maintaining health and preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
Explain the significance of antibiotic resistance in microbiology.
Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria adapt to the presence of antibiotics, rendering the drugs ineffective. This phenomenon poses a significant threat to the public health as it can lead to the failure of antibiotic treatment, making infections more challenging to control. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics contribute to the development of resistant strains, highlighting the importance of responsible antibiotic use to preserve their efficiency in treating bacterial infections.
How does DNA differ from RNA? (2 ways)
DNA and RNA differ in their sugar composition. DNA has deoxyribose, while RNA has ribose. Additionally DNA is typically double-stranded, while RNA is usually single-stranded.
Define the term: "phospholipid bilayer"
The "phospholipid bilayer" refers to a double layer of phospholipid molecules that forms the basis of cell membranes.
During an experiment you observe a bacterial infection that has developed resistance to an antibiotic over time. Explain the potential mechanisms behind the development of antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
The development of antibiotic resistance in bacteria can occur through genetic mutations or acquisitions of resistance genes. Mutations may lead to changes in bacterial DNA, affecting targets of antibiotics or enhancing efflux mechanisms.
Explain the difference between bacteria and viruses in terms of structure, replication, and their response to antibiotics.
Bacteria are single-celled organisms with a simple structure, containing a cell wall and a cell membrane. They replicate through binary fission, a process of asexual reproduction. Bacteria are generally susceptible to antibiotics that target specific cellular components like cell walls or protein synthesis.
Viruses, on the other hand are not cells but genetic material (either DNA or RNA) surrounded by a protein coat called a capsi. They replicate by hijacking host cells machinery. Antibiotics are not effective against viruses: antiviral medications are typically used to inhibit specific stages of the virus life cycle.
Bacteria are cells that reproduce independently, while viruses are genetic material that rely on host cells for replication. Antibiotics are effective against bacteria but not viruses.
A food processing plant reports an outbreak of foodborne illness linked to its product. Design a microbiological testing plan to identify and control the potential microbial contaminants in the food production process.
To address the foodborne illness outbreak, a microbiological testing plan should involve regular sampling at key points in the production process. Implementing swab tests on equipment surfaces, microbial analysis of raw ingredients, and periodic testing of final products would be essential. Techniques like PCR and culturing can be employed for specific pathogen detection. This plan aims to identify and control microbial contaminants, ensuring the safety of the food production process and preventing future outbreaks.
How does the process of mitosis contribute to the growth and repair of tissues in multicellular organisms?
Mitosis is a cell division process where a single cell divides into two identical daughter cells. This enables growth by increasing the number of cells and facilitates tissue repair by replacing damaged or dead cells with new, identical ones.
Describe the role of ATP in cellular process and provide an example of a specific cellular activity that heavily relies on ATP.
ATP serves as the primary energy currency in cells, providing the energy needed for various cellular processes. One example is active transport across cell membranes, where ATP powers the movement of molecules against their concentration gradient.
In an experiment, cells were treated with a substance that inhibits the function of the Golgi apparatus. Describe the potential effects on the cellular processes and explain the significance of the Golgi apparatus in the cell.
The inhibition of the Golgi apparatus could disturb the processing, modification, and packaging of proteins and lipids. This might lead to impaired secretion, mislocalization of cellular components, and a decrease in the synthesis of important molecules. The Golgi apparatus plays a crucial role in sorting and modifying cellular products before they are transported to their final destinations, highlighting its significance in maintaining cellular functions.
A water treatment facility wants to ensure the safety of its drinking water. Propose a microbiological monitoring strategy to assess and maintain water quality and safety.
To safeguard drinking water quality, implement a microbiological monitoring strategy involving regular water sampling from different stages of the treatment process. Utilize techniques like membrane filtration or PCR ti detect bacteria, viruses, and other microbial contaminants. Establish thresholds for acceptable microbial levels and conduct routine checks to identify deviations. This proactive approach will help ensure the effectiveness of water treatment and maintain safe drinking water standards.
A patient presents with symptoms suggestive of a bacterial infection. As a microbiologist describe the steps you would take to identify the causative agent.
I would collect a sample from the patient, such as blood, urine, or a swab from the affected site. Then, I would perform a various of laboratory techniques like Gram staining, culture, and biochemical tests to identify the bacterial species. Additionally, molecular methods like PCR may be employed for a more precise identification. This comprehensive approach helps determine the causative agent and guides appropriate treatment strategies.