Virus Structure
Composed of genetic material and proteinContain either DNA or RNA
Protein capsid surrounds genetic material
Viral shapes: rod, spiral, cubical or many-sided
Smaller than bacteria
Virus Properties
Lack cytoplasm, cell membranes, and ribosomesDo not grow or carry on metabolic activities
Contains only one type of nucleic acid
Contains few enzymes
Can be crystallized and reactivated
Virus Reproduction: Lytic Cycle
Attachment: virus attaches to specific host cell receptor sites.Entry: virus injects DNA into the host cell.
Replication: viral DNA takes over the cell, directing production of viral DNA and proteins
Assembly: new viruses made
Release: lysis of bacterial cell
Virus Reproduction: Lysogenic Cycle
Attachment and Entry: Virus enters the cell as in the lytic cycle.Provirus formation: Viral DNA attaches to host DNA.
Cell divides with viral DNA. No harm is done to the host cell.
External stimuli (x-rays or UV radiation) causes the virus to become virulent.
Virus Classification
Genetic materialDNA virusesmay begin producing RNA directlymay become part of host cell DNA
examples: small pox, warts, mononucleosis, cold sores, genital herpes
RNA viruses
may produce proteins directlyretroviruses: make DNA from viral RNA, then new DNA directs RNA synthesis
examples: Polio, rabies, mumps, flu, measles, HIV
Characteristics
Monerans are prokaryotic and unicellularThree common shapes
coccus: roundbacillus: rod
spirillum: spiral
Growth patterns
staphylo: clustersstrepto: chains
diplo: pairs
Structure
Cell wall used for protection; maintains osmotic balanceCapsule surrounds cell wall for additional protection
Endospore: dormant structure that may form when environmental conditions are harsh
Reproduction
Binary fissionDNA in the cell replicatesPlasma membrane and cell wall grow inward
Cell pinches in two
Conjugation
bridge is formed between two cellssmall portion of DNA is passed from one cell to another
Eubacteria
Heterotrophs: parasites or saprophytesPhotosynthetic autotrophs: use light to obtain energy. Example: cyanobacteria
Chemosynthetic autotrophs: use sulfur and nitrogen containing compounds for energy.
Archaebacteria
Anaerobic and autotrophicMethane-producing bacteria: live in swamps, marshes, digestive tracts of animals
Salt-loving bacteria: live in salt lakes
Heat and acid-loving bacteria: live near underwater volcanoes, thermal vents, and hot sulfur springs
Significance
Produce nutrientsUsed to produce dairy products
Used to make antibiotics
Degrade environmental hazards
Fermented meats
Sugar syrup production
Stain removers