Microbiome and Human Body Quiz

Microbiome and Normal Flora

• Microbiome refers to microorganisms that reside in healthy human anatomical sites without causing infection or disease.
• Sterile areas of the body include blood, lymph, cerebrospinal fluid, and internal organs.

Biofilms

• A biofilm is a community of microorganisms encased in a protective matrix.
• Biofilms can develop on various surfaces such as tissues, teeth, and medical devices.
• Health risks linked to biofilms include the growth of bacterial communities, compromised device function, and increased antibiotic resistance.
• Common microorganisms associated with biofilms on medical devices include Staphylococcus aureus (bacteria) and Candida albicans (yeast).

Pathogens and Infection Control

• Pathogens are biological entities that lead to disease.
• Factors that have reduced mortality from infectious agents include:
  • Aseptic techniques, such as alcohol sterilization.
  • Antimicrobial drugs including antibiotics and antivirals, though pathogens can develop resistance.
  • Immunizations that help prevent disease.

Food and Water-borne Diseases

• E. coli
  • Transmission: Uncooked meat, contaminated food, swimming in contaminated water.
  • Symptoms: Severe bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramps.
• Salmonella
  • Transmission: Contaminated poultry, eggs, meat; fecal-oral route.
  • Symptoms: Gastroenteritis, enteric fever, septicemia.
• Hepatitis A
  • Transmission: Contaminated food/water with human feces.
  • Symptoms: Fever, anorexia, nausea, abdominal discomfort.

Airborne Diseases

• Pathogens transmitted through the air.

Bacterial Cell Wall

• The bacterial cell wall is composed of peptidoglycan, which is made up of sugars and proteins.
• A thick peptidoglycan layer is associated with Gram-positive staining, while a thin layer correlates with Gram-negative staining.
• Knowledge of cell wall composition is crucial for selecting appropriate antimicrobial drugs.

Pathogen Load

• Refers to the concentration of pathogenic microorganisms in a host or environment.
• Significantly impacts disease dynamics, severity, transmission, and host immune responses.

Periplasmic Space

• A thick peptidoglycan layer results in a small periplasmic space, facilitating antibiotic penetration.
• A thin layer, in contrast, has a large periplasmic space, complicating antibiotic entry and contributing to resistance.

Lipopolysaccharides (LPS)

• LPS, found in the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, contributes to structural integrity and protects against harmful substances.
• Acts as an endotoxin, triggering immune responses.

Complexity of Bacteria

• Gram-negative bacteria are more complex due to thin peptidoglycan layers and the presence of LPS, which acts as a barrier to antibiotics.

Surface Appendages

• Bacterial flagella are long, whip-like structures used for locomotion, allowing bacteria to navigate toward favorable environments.
• Taxis refers to movement patterns in bacteria, involving runs (smooth motion) and tumbles (random reorientation).
• Pili are hair-like appendages mainly found in Gram-negative bacteria, aiding in attachment, conjugation, and motility.

Cilia

• Cilia are hair-like structures on eukaryotic cells, composed of microtubules, important for maintenance of cellular health.

Biosafety Levels in Laboratories

• Biosafety Level 1: Basic level; includes non-pathogenic organisms like E. coli.
• Biosafety Level 2: Moderate risk; includes pathogens like Salmonella and Staphylococcus aureus.
• Biosafety Level 3: High risk; includes serious pathogens like Anthrax and Tuberculosis.
• Biosafety Level 4: Highest risk; includes the most dangerous pathogens.

Hospital-Associated Infections (HAIs)

• HAIs develop during hospital stays, often after 48 hours of admission and unrelated to the original health issue.
• Can lead to severe complications, prolonged recovery, and are often caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria such as MRSA.

Regulatory Agencies

• OSHA: Occupational Safety and Health Administration; ensures safe working conditions through standards and education.
• HHS: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; protects health and provides essential services to Americans.

Test your knowledge on the microbiome and normal flora found in the human body. This quiz will cover areas of the body that are sterile, the definition of biofilms, and their locations. Perfect for anyone studying microbiology or human anatomy.