![]() ![]() Other structures in the cell perform metabolic functions that are essential for life. Within its interior, each cell carries the DNA encoding its genome. The wall provides a structure to enclose the internal components of the cell. Some microbes are also surrounded by a cell wall. This allows the cell to bring in important material, like nutrients, while expelling waste. The membrane controls the movement of material in and out of the cell. Every microbial cell is surrounded by a cell membrane. Most microbes are made of only one or a few cells. Many have unique features and capabilities, yet they share a few common characteristics (Figure 2). From left to right, organisms and size: Salmonella enterica (1 μM), Saccharomyces cerevisiae (10 μM), and Escherichia coli (1 μM). Image sources: S. It takes at 400-1000X magnification to see these organisms clearly with a microscope. Figure 1: Microscopy reveals the intricate features of microbes. Understanding the fascinating growth of microbes helps us develop practices to maintain balanced interactions with these microorganisms. For instance, Escherichia coli can cause gastrointestinal illness when ingested but can produce life-saving synthetic insulin in an industrial setting. Some microbes can be both harmful or beneficial in different conditions. ![]() For example, bakers use warm temperatures to promote the growth of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae to make bread dough rise. On the other hand, some microbes perform useful functions and we intentionally cultivate them. We use refrigeration to slow the growth of microbes like these and keep food safe to eat. Consider the pathogenic bacteria Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella enterica that cause foodborne illnesses. On one hand, there are many harmful microbes we try to avoid. To be able to live harmoniously with all of these microbes, we implement numerous practices to control their growth. Microbes include bacteria, fungi, and protists. Beyond size, microbes are incredibly diverse. As suggested by the name, all microbes are too small to be seen without a microscope. Microbes (also known as microorganisms) are everywhere: on surfaces we touch, in the air we breathe, and even inside us. ![]()
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