Ch 4 Question 1 Flashcards
What are the general characteristics of bacterial cells?
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Cell membrane
A thin sheet of lipid and and protein that surrounds the cytoplasm and controls the flow of materials into and out of the cell pool.
Bacterial chromosomes or nucleoid
Composed of condensed DNA molecules. DNA directs all genetics and heredity of the cell and codes for all proteins.
Ribosomes
Tiny particles composed of protein and RNA that are the sites of protein synthesis.
Cytoplasm
Water based solution filling the entire cell.
S layer
Monolayer of protein used for protection and/or attachment.
Fimbriae
Fine, hairlike bristles extending from the cell surface that help in adhesion to other cells and surfaces.
Outer membrane
Extra membrane similar to cell membrane but also contains lipopolyccharides. Controls flow of materials, and portions of it are toxic to mammals when released.
Cell wall
A semirigid casing that provides structural support and shape for the cell.
Actin cytoskeleton
Long fibers of proteins that encircle the cell just inside the cell membrane and contribute to the shape of the cell.
Pilus
An appendage used for drawing another bacterium close in order to transfer DNA to it.
Capsule (tan coating)
A coating or layer of molecules external to the cell wall. It serves protective, adhesive, and receptor functions. It may fit tightly or be very loose and diffuse. Also called slime layer and glyocalyx.
Inclusion/Granule
Stored nutrients such as fat, phosphate, or glycogen deposited in dense crystals or particles that can be tapped into when needed.
Bacterial microcompartments
Protein- coated packets used to localize enzymes and other proteins in the cytoplasm.
Plasmid
Double-stranded DNA circle containing extra genes.
