What is the hierarchical set of priorities for study?
- Material discussed in lecture
- Handout from lecture
- References to the text made in lecture
Keeping on top of the material is critical to success. Come to class prepared to ask questions and participate in discussion.
What is the importance of practice in developing a new vocabulary?
Practice, practice, practice!
This is essential for mastering new terms and concepts.
Define symbiosis.
Biological association of two or more species that may, but does not necessarily, benefit each
Symbiosis can take various forms, including commensalism, mutualism, and parasitism.
What does commensal mean in the context of symbiosis?
One species derives benefit and the other is unharmed
This is one of the types of symbiotic relationships.
What is mutualism?
Both species derive benefit
Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship where both parties gain advantages.
Define parasitism.
One species (parasite) benefits at the expense of the other (host)
This relationship can harm the host species.
What is indigenous microbiota?
Referred to by some as ‘flora’
These are the microorganisms that naturally inhabit the body.
What factors determine the nature of microbiota?
- Local physiology and ecology
- Diet
- Microbial attributes
- Microbial interactions (competition)
These factors influence the composition and function of microbiota.
What is the role of Bifidobacterium in human infants?
GI microbiota of breast-fed infants
Bifidobacterium is important for the health of infants, particularly those who are breast-fed.
What is the normal microbiota of the skin?
- Staphylococcus epidermidis
- Other staphylococci
- Propionibacterium (Cutibacterium)
- Diphtheroids
These organisms are part of the skin’s natural flora.
What is the bacterial content in the colon?
10e10 to 10e11 bacteria/ml; feces are about 25% bacteria by weight
The colon has a high density of bacteria, primarily anaerobes.
What is the significance of the mucociliary escalator in the respiratory tract?
Protects the larynx and below, middle ear, and sinuses
This mechanism helps clear pathogens and debris from the respiratory system.
What are the microbiota characteristics of the vagina during childbearing years?
- Lactobacillus
- Anaerobic GNRs
- GPC
- Gardnerella
- Mycoplasma
- Ureaplasma
These organisms are part of the normal vaginal flora during this period.
What are the beneficial effects of microbiota?
- Priming immune system
- Exclusionary effect
- Nutritional (digestion, malabsorption, vitamin K)
- Normal function of many human organs/systems
Microbiota play a crucial role in maintaining health.
What is Next Generation Sequencing?
Massively parallel sequencing
This technology allows for simultaneous sequencing of multiple DNA fragments.
