BACTERIOPHAGE Meaning and
Definition
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A bacteriophage is a type of virus that specifically infects bacteria. The term "bacteriophage" is derived from the Greek words "bacterio" meaning bacteria and "phagein" meaning to eat. Bacteriophages are composed of a protein coat or capsid that protects their genetic material, which can either be DNA or RNA. They have a unique lifecycle that involves attachment, penetration, replication, and lysis of the bacterial host.
Bacteriophages play a crucial role in controlling bacterial populations and shaping microbial ecosystems. Upon encountering a susceptible bacterial host, the bacteriophage will attach to specific receptor sites on the bacterial cell surface. It then injects its genetic material into the host cell using tail fibers, ensuring that the viral genetic material takes control of the bacterial machinery.
Once inside the bacterium, the bacteriophage takes over the host's cellular machinery to replicate its own genetic material and produce multiple copies of itself. This process eventually leads to the lysis or destruction of the bacterial host, causing its contents to be released along with the newly formed viral particles. These particles can then infect other bacterial cells, continuing the cycle.
Bacteriophages have gained attention as potential therapeutic agents for the treatment of bacterial infections, particularly those caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. They offer specificity and precision in killing targeted bacteria, while leaving the rest of the microbiota intact. Research involving bacteriophages is ongoing, as scientists explore their potential applications in medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology.
Common Misspellings for BACTERIOPHAGE
Etymology of BACTERIOPHAGE
The word "bacteriophage" is derived from two Greek words. "Bacterio" comes from the Greek word "bakterion", which means "small staff" or "rod". "Phage" comes from the Greek word "phagos", which means "eater" or "devourer". Therefore, when combined, "bacteriophage" literally means "bacteria-eater" or "bacteria-devourer". This name accurately reflects the nature of these viruses, which infect and destroy bacteria. The term was first coined by the French-Canadian microbiologist Félix d'Herelle in the early 20th century.
Similar spelling words for BACTERIOPHAGE
- bacteria order,
- bacteriological,
- bacteriaemia,
- bacteriemia,
- bacteriostasis,
- bacteriophagic,
- bacterioidal,
- bacteriolytic,
- bacteria genus,
- bacteriophagous,
- bacteriolysis,
- bactericide,
- bacteriology,
- bacterial toxin,
- bacteriologic,
- bacteriostatic,
- bacteriologist,
- bacteriacide,
- bacteria bed,
- bacteriostat,
- bacterioid,
- bacterially,
- bacteremia.
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