Comparison of the Characteristics of the Four Major Groups of Microorganisms

Create a table to compare and contrast the characteristics of the four major groups of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses) and helminths. Be sure to include specific examples of each group.

Diagram (draw) the Gram-positive cell wall. Be sure to label specific components of the structure. What is the medical significance of LTAs? Diagram (draw) the Gram-negative cell wall. Be sure to label specific components of the structure. What is the medical significance of LPS? What is the medical significance of the O-linked side chain? Diagram (draw) the acid-fast cell wall. Explain why an acid-fast bacterium is not classified as G+ or G-. Create a table to compare and contrast the four groups of beta-lactam antibiotics (penicillins, cephalosporins, combination drugs, and carbapenems). Be sure to include mechanisms of resistance for each group. Create a table for the Clostridial species discussed (botulinum, C. tetani, and C. difficile). What specific disease is associated with each species? What are the signs and symptoms associated with the pathology for each species? How does the endospore contribute to the development of disease for each species? Define a biofilm. What are the two functions of the biofilm? Diagram (draw) how biofilms contribute to VAPs. What species are associated with VAPs? Define a capsule. Diagram (draw) an encapsulated bacterium.