JNTU B.Pharmacy II PHARMACEUTICAL MICROBIOLOGY Previous Question Paper (September/October - 2023 - R17)

The major differences between prokaryotes and eukaryotes are as follows:

• Nucleus: Prokaryotes lack a well-defined membrane-bound nucleus, whereas eukaryotes possess a distinct nucleus enclosed by a nuclear envelope.
• Cellular Organization: Prokaryotes are typically unicellular and lack membrane-bound organelles like mitochondria or chloroplasts, while eukaryotes are often multicellular and contain complex, membrane-bound organelles.
• DNA Structure: Prokaryotic DNA is usually circular and located in the nucleoid region, whereas eukaryotic DNA is linear and organized into multiple chromosomes within the nucleus.

Bacteria require specific nutrients to support their metabolic processes, growth, and reproduction. These nutritional requirements are categorized based on the chemical elements and energy sources needed:

• Carbon Source: Autotrophs utilize inorganic carbon (CO2), while heterotrophs require organic carbon sources such as glucose or amino acids.
• Nitrogen Source: Essential for the synthesis of proteins, nucleic acids, and ATP. Bacteria obtain nitrogen from inorganic salts (nitrates, ammonium) or organic compounds like amino acids and peptides.
• Inorganic Ions: Minerals such as phosphorus (for DNA/RNA/ATP), sulfur (for amino acids), potassium, magnesium, and calcium are required for enzymatic activity and cellular stability.
• Growth Factors: Many bacteria require specific organic compounds they cannot synthesize themselves, such as vitamins, purines, and pyrimidines.
• Water: Acts as the universal solvent and medium for all biochemical reactions within the bacterial cell.