Lecture 9: Symbiosis Flashcards
What is symbiosis?
Two different Organisms that live closely + interacts in a way that affects one of them
What are the three types of symbiotic relationships?
Commensal
Mutualistic
Parasitic
Define a commensal relationship.
1 benefits, the other is neither harmed nor benefits.
What is a mutualistic relationship?
Both organisms benefit from the relationship.
What is parasitism?
A relationship where one organism benefits at the expense of another.
What are normal flora?
Organisms that routinely reside on the body’s surfaces.
When can normal flora cause disease?
Overgrow
Grow in a new location
List some organ systems where normal flora can be found.
- Mouth
- Throat
- Stomach
- Intestines
- Skin
- Eyes
- Ears
- Nose
- Urethra
- Genital tract
- Lungs
What role do normal flora play in protecting the body?
- Compete for attachment with pathogenic bacteria
- Produce antimicrobial substances
- Produce beneficial chemicals like vitamins and serotonin
- Stimulate the immune system
How does gut bacteria fluctuate?
What microbes are around and what products do they make can change daily.
What do fecal transplants help with?
Clostridium difficile infections post antibiotics.
Who has the most similar normal flora?
Your normal flora most resembles your housemates.
What potential future direction of antibiotic development is discussed?
A symbiotic relationship that led to new insights.
