Microbiology: Microbial Life and Discovery

A microscopic organism that requires a microscope to be seen.

Organisms with a single cell, but some can form multicellular structures.

Viruses are acellular entities, much smaller than the smallest cells, requiring a host to multiply.

The genetic information of an organism, containing instructions for its functions.

The process of determining the sequence of nucleotides in DNA.

The first method of DNA sequencing suitable for large genomes, developed by Fred Sanger.

Collection of sequences from diverse populations of microbes directly sampled from the environment.

Single-celled organisms lacking a nucleus. Examples include bacteria and archaea.

Organisms with cells containing a nucleus. Examples include algae, fungi, and protists.

The three major evolutionary lineages of life: bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotes.

Microbes have played crucial roles in shaping human history.

Microbes like yeasts and bacteria were used in the production of fermented foods and beverages.

A type of bacteria that can obtain energy from inorganic compounds like rocks. They play a crucial role in metal mining and the deterioration of ancient stone monuments.

Infectious diseases caused by microorganisms have shaped human demographics and cultural practices.

The bubonic plague, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, was responsible for significant deaths during the 14th century.

Tuberculosis, caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, was a major cause of death in the 19th century.

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), continues to be a major public health concern.

Microbial infections have been significant causes of death in warfare, surpassing battle injuries.

Florence Nightingale, a British nurse, established the science of medical statistics and professional nursing, recognizing the importance of disease in warfare.

A graphical representation used to show the causes of death among soldiers during the Crimean War, highlighting the impact of infectious disease.

Robert Hooke, an English scientist, built the first compound microscope and observed mold, contributing to the discovery of the microbial world.

The first manuscript illustrating objects observed with a microscope, published by Robert Hooke in 1665.

The basic unit of life, observed by Robert Hooke through his microscope.

Microbes are diverse and include prokaryotes (bacteria, archaea), some eukaryotes (algae, fungi, protists), and acellular entities like viruses and prions.

The process by which organisms evolve from a common ancestor, explaining the diversity of life.

The first cellular microbe sequenced in 1995, paving the way for understanding microbial genomes.

A single-celled organism that lacks a nucleus and is found in a wide variety of environments.

Single-celled organisms that lack a nucleus and are often found in extreme environments.

Single-celled organisms that have a nucleus and include diverse groups like algae, fungi, and protozoa.

Microscopic organisms that are often found in water and can produce their own food through photosynthesis.

A group of organisms that includes mushrooms, yeast, and molds.

Infectious agents that can cause disease. They are made of a protein and genetic material, but cannot reproduce on their own.