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Microbiology | Study Mondo

Microbiology

Bacteria, viruses, fungi, microbial genetics, antimicrobials, and host-pathogen interactions

Written and reviewed by Brendan Cusack, Study Mondo Education TeamLast updated February 15, 2026

📂 Subtopics in Microbiology

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Bacteria

Bacterial structure, growth, and classification

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Viruses

Viral replication cycles and host interactions

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Microbial Genetics

Horizontal gene transfer and resistance mechanisms

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Microbiology for the MCAT

Bacteria

Prokaryotic, cell wall (peptidoglycan)
Gram+: Thick peptidoglycan (purple); Gram−: Thin + outer membrane (pink)
Shapes: cocci (spheres), bacilli (rods), spirilla (spirals)
Binary fission (asexual, rapid)

Viruses

Obligate intracellular parasites; DNA or RNA genome
Lytic: Replicate immediately, lyse cell
Lysogenic: Integrate into host genome
Retroviruses (HIV): RNA → DNA via reverse transcriptase

Microbial Genetics

Transformation: Uptake of free DNA
Transduction: DNA transfer via bacteriophage
Conjugation: Direct transfer via pilus (F-plasmid)
Plasmids often carry antibiotic resistance genes

Antimicrobials

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📌 Related Topics in Biological & Biochemical Foundations

Mendelian & Non-Mendelian Genetics Bacteria Musculoskeletal System DNA Replication & Repair

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is Microbiology?▾

Bacteria, viruses, fungi, microbial genetics, antimicrobials, and host-pathogen interactions

How can I study Microbiology effectively?▾

Start by reading the study notes and working through the examples on this page. Then use the flashcards to test your recall. Regular review and active practice are key to retention.

Is this Microbiology study guide free?▾

Yes — all study notes, flashcards, and practice problems for Microbiology on Study Mondo are free to access. No account is needed.

What course covers Microbiology?▾

Microbiology is part of the MCAT Prep course on Study Mondo, specifically in the Biological & Biochemical Foundations section. You can explore the full course for more related topics and practice resources.

Microbiology

📂 Subtopics in Microbiology

Bacteria

Viruses

Microbial Genetics

Try the Interactive Version!

Microbiology for the MCAT

Bacteria

Viruses

Microbial Genetics

Antimicrobials

Practice Lab

Practice with Flashcards

Browse All Topics

📌 Related Topics in Biological & Biochemical Foundations

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Antimicrobials & Resistance