Lecture on Eukaryotic Microbes: Fungi

Introduction to Eukaryotes

• Eukaryotes are cells with nuclei.
• Humans and other organisms are made of eukaryotic cells.

Types of Eukaryotic Microbes

• Focus on fungi, a type of eukaryotic microbe.

Fungi

• Types of Fungi:
  • Filamentous Fungi:
    • Known as molds.
    • Composed of long strands called mycelia.
    • Mycelia made up of smaller parts called hyphae.
    • Example: Mold on bread or fruit.
  • Yeasts:
    • Exist as single cells.
    • Example: Saccharomyces cerevisiae (baker's yeast).
• Mushrooms:
  • Visible with the naked eye.
  • Composed of mycelia.
  • Mycelium grows underground; mushrooms sprout above ground.

Nutrition and Growth

• Fungi are heterotrophs:
  • Acquire nutrition from external sources.
  • Commonly grow in soil or on rotting plants.
  • Mycelium absorbs nutrients and grows.
  • Mushrooms are the reproductive structures of fungi.

Fungal Cell Wall Structure

• Cell Membrane:
  • Typical lipid bilayer.
• Chitin Layer:
  • Below the outer layer.
  • Polymer of sugars, specifically N-acetyl glucosamine.
• Beta-Glucans Layer:
  • Above chitin.
• Glycoprotein Layer:
  • Topmost layer.
  • Mostly mannose linked to protein.
• Differences:
  • Fungal cell walls differ from those of plants, bacteria, and animals.

Conclusion

• Fungi offer a diverse range of forms and nutritional strategies within eukaryotic microbes.

Additional Note

• Encouragement for further medical exam preparation with Lecturio, offering access to medical experts and resources.