A bacterial smear is a thin layer of bacteria placed on a microscope slide for staining and examination. This technique is vital because most bacteria are transparent and require staining to be visible under a microscope. Proper smear preparation ensures that bacteria retain their shape and arrangement, allowing for accurate observation. Materials Needed for Bacterial […]
The starch hydrolysis test is a straightforward microbiological method used to identify if bacteria can break down starch, a complex carbohydrate, into simpler sugars. This ability is due to the presence of an enzyme called amylase. Bacteria that produce amylase can digest starch into smaller sugar molecules, such as glucose and maltose. This test is
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Define Human Growth Hormone? Human Growth Hormone (hGH) is an essential protein that plays a key role in human growth and development. Produced by the pituitary gland, hGH supports growth in children and helps maintain tissues and organs in adults. However, when the body does not produce enough of this hormone, it can lead to
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What is Recombinant DNA? Recombinant DNA (rDNA) technology, also known as genetic engineering, involves modifying the genetic material of organisms by combining DNA from various sources to create new genetic sequences. Enzymes play a crucial role in this process by helping to manipulate DNA in different ways, allowing the creation and study of recombinant DNA.
Streptococcus is a type of bacteria that can cause a wide variety of infections in humans. While some strains are harmless or even beneficial, others can lead to minor or severe illnesses. Understanding how strep is classified helps distinguish between strains that are dangerous and those that are normally present in the body without causing
Define Human Immunodeficiency Virus? The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that specifically targets the human immune system, particularly CD4+ T cells, which are vital for immune function. Without treatment, HIV can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), a severe condition where the immune system is weakened. To better understand how HIV works, let’s
What is mean by Southern Blotting? Southern blotting is a widely-used laboratory technique for detecting specific DNA sequences within a sample. First introduced by biologist Edwin Southern in 1975, it has become a key method in molecular biology to study genes, detect mutations, and perform DNA fingerprinting. The technique enables researchers to pinpoint a particular
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Mycoplasma is a unique group of bacteria known for its small size and unusual characteristics, often associated with diseases in humans and animals. Despite its simplicity, Mycoplasma’s biology is quite interesting. Let’s explore its habitat, morphology, culture, and biochemical features in clear terms.Mycoplasma is also called Pleuropneumonia-Like Organisms (PPLO) because they were first discovered in
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Streptococcus is a group of bacteria that causes various infections, ranging from mild to severe. These bacteria have several virulence factors, which are specific traits that help them infect and damage human tissues. By understanding these factors, we can learn why Streptococcus causes infections and how the body fights back. What are Virulence Factors? Virulence
What is Dengue Virus? The dengue virus is responsible for causing dengue fever, a mosquito-borne disease that affects millions globally. Understanding the virus’s structure, its various serotypes, and how it spreads helps us better combat this illness. Structure of the Dengue Virus The dengue virus (DENV) is part of the Flavivirus family, which also includes
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