Study GuideMicrobiology–Introduction to Microbiology1.A Brief History of MicrobiologyMicrobiology is the study of tiny living things calledmicroorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi,protozoa, and viruses. Although these organisms are too small to see with the naked eye, they have ahuge impact on our lives. Over time, microbiology has grown from simply explaining diseases tohelping us create medicines, foods, and many useful products.1.1Early Beginnings: Discovering the Invisible WorldScientists are not sure who first noticed microorganisms. However, by the mid-1600s, microscopeshad been invented, making it possible to see tiny structures for the first time.One of the earliest contributors wasRobert Hooke, an English scientist. Using a microscope, heobserved cells and reported seeing thread-like structures that were probably fungi.A few years later, a Dutch merchant namedAnton van Leeuwenhoekmade major discoveries. In the1670s, he carefully observed microscopic organisms in water, saliva, and other materials. He calledthemanimalcules. His detailed descriptions of bacteria, fungi, and protozoa were the first accuraterecords of microbial life. Because of this work, he is often called thefather of microbiology.1.2The Debate Over Spontaneous GenerationAfter van Leeuwenhoek’s death in 1723, progress in microbiology slowed. Microscopes were rare,and many scientists believed inspontaneous generation—the idea that life could arise fromnonliving matter, such as microbes appearing in spoiled broth.Several scientists challenged this belief:•Francesco Redishowed that maggots only appeared on meat when flies could reach it.•John Needhamsupported spontaneous generation, claiming microbes grew in boiled broth.•Lazzaro Spallanzanilater proved that when broth was boiled and sealed properly, nomicroorganisms appeared.These experiments suggested that microorganisms come from existing life, not from nonlivingmaterial.Preview Mode
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