1.2 MI Study Guide PLTW Flashcards
Antibiotics
a substance produced or deprived by a microorganism that are able to inhibit or kill another microorganism.
Gene
Segment of DNA codes (nucleotides)
What determines the effectiveness of antibiotics?
The action of a drug and the structure of the bacteria
How do penicillins (also called β-Lactam antibiotics) affect bacteria?
A wide range antibiotics that interfere with the synthesis of peptidoglycan (Cell wall) and target gram positive bacteria. They produce and enzyme that breaks down the beta-lactam ring.
How do tetracyclines affect bacteria?
A broad-spectrum antibiotic that targets gram-positive and negative. they affect protein synthesis and inhibit the growth of bacteria.
How do fluoroquinolones affect bacteria?
Targets gram positive and negative bacteria and affects bacterial DNA replication by interfering with the enzymes DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV.
How do Sulfa antibiotics (Sulfonamids) affect bacteria?
Targets gram-positive and negative bacteria and affects protein synthesis of vitamin B folate which prevents growth and reproduction.
What cellular components do some bacterial cells have that make them powerful pathogens?
The phil of a bacterial cell allows them to adhere to host cells which makes them stronger and is key in the initial infection.
Why are penicillins often more effective against Gram positive bacteria than Gram negative bacteria?
Gram positive bacteria have a thick layer of peptidoglycan that makes it easier for penicillin to access.
Why is it important to understand the structure of a bacterial cell when developing an antibiotic?
It makes it easier to identify specific targets within the cell that can be disrupted by the antibiotic, effectively killing the bacteria while minimizing harm to human cells.
How do antibiotics work without harming the surrounding human cells?
They affect things that are unique to bacteria, or target specific processes within bacteria.
Why are antibiotics NOT effective against viruses?
Viruses have different structures and a way of surviving than bacteria.
Antibiotic Resistant
Resistance to one or more antibiotics, usually due to additional genetic information.
Nucleoid
The DNA-containing area of a bacterial cell.
Plasmid (generic bacteria cell)
A small ring of DNA that carries accessory genes separate from those of the bacterial chromosome.
Conjugation
The one-way transfer of DNA between bacteria in cellular contact.
Transformation
The process by which the genetic makeup of the call is changed by the uptake of DNA from the environment.
Transduction
The transfer of genetic material from one organism (such as a bacterium) to another by a genetic vector.
What is Streptococcus pneumonia and where is it found?
A gram-positive, lancet-shaped bacterium found in the back of the nose.
What diseases Streptococcus pneumonia can cause?
Ear infections, sinus infections, pneumonia, and meningitis.
What are some diseases that are considered antibiotic resistant?
Tuberculosis, malaria, skin infections, pneumonia, and ear infections.