Web Microbiology at ACM

Chapter 6, Episode 8

In this episode we'll discuss the process of DNA replication and point out the subtle differences between linear chromosomes and circular chromosomes and how they are replicated. We'll also cover the important enzymes involved in this process, and how proofreading prevents mutations.

Chapter 6, Episode 7

In this episode, we'll review the DNA molecule in detail, talk about how chromosomes are organized in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, and discuss how this organization sets cells up for replication.

Chapter 5, Episode 6

In this episode we finish the chapter on eukaryotes by discussing algae, protozoa and helminths. We review the life cycle of Plasmodium, the protozoa that causes malaria, and cover the different classifications of helminths.

Chapter 5, Episode 5

In this episode we explore the characteristics of microorganisms belonging to the kingdom of fungi. What makes them unique, what their morphologies are, the similarities between fungal cells and human cells, and the differences between fungal cells and bacteria. We also briefly touch on mycoses, the fungal pathogens, and end the episode with the benefits of fungi to humans and to our environment.

Chapter 5, Episode 4

This episode introduces the Endosymbiotic Theory and explains how complex eukaryotic cells evolved from prokaryotic ancestors. We briefly review the major groups of microbial eukaryotes and highlight the structural features, including mitochondria, chloroplasts, and membrane-bound organelles, that distinguish them from bacteria and influence how we treat eukaryotic pathogens.

Chapter 4, Episode 3

This episode examines the internal structures of bacteria, including chromosomes, plasmids, ribosomes, and the powerful survival strategy of endospore formation. We also compare bacteria to archaea and introduce Bergey’s Manual as a tool for microbial identification in clinical and lab settings.

Chapter 4, Episode 2

We dive into the external structures that help bacteria move, attach, exchange genes, and survive. From flagella and chemotaxis to pili, capsules, and the Gram-positive vs. Gram-negative cell envelope, this episode connects structure to staining, antibiotic susceptibility, and disease severity. 

Chapter 4, Episode 1

This episode explores the structure and “lifestyle” of bacterial cells, from shape and arrangement to biofilm formation and motility. Learn how features like capsules, flagella, and quorum sensing influence infection, antibiotic resistance, and clinical outcomes.

Chapter 25, Episode 16

This episode focuses on applied microbiology, water safety, and the One Health concept connecting environmental, animal, and human health. Topics include biotechnology, fermentation, wastewater treatment, waterborne pathogens, and indicator organisms. The episode also discusses spillover events, climate change, vector-borne disease, and how environmental changes can influence infectious disease transmission.

Exam 1 Content

Chapter 25, Episode 15

This episode introduces microbial ecology and explains how microorganisms are essential for maintaining life on Earth. It focuses on microbial roles in the carbon and nitrogen cycles, decomposition, respiration, fermentation, methane production, nitrogen fixation, nitrification, and denitrification. The episode also highlights how microbes influence ecosystems, climate, and the interconnected concept of One Health.