Introduction
Microbiology is a study of minute organisms that can only be resolved using a microscope. These microorganisms cannot be seen using our naked eyes. Cell function has been studied extensively in microbiology. In addition, there have been studies at the level of genes and proteins known as molecular biology and at the level of community which is referred to as epidemiological and ecological microbiology. Examples of microbial organisms include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites or protozoa.
History of Microbiology
The study of microbes is not a current study. It also existed several centuries ago. The advancements being seen at present are just innovations of the discoveries made by a few scientists in the past. Louis Pasteur, a former research scientist discovered the microorganisms responsible for rancidity in milk and even other dairy products (Brul et al., 2008). In addition, he made discoveries in the health sector by studying drugs that are against bacteria.
These drugs were named called antibiotics. Pasteur’s discoveries were research highlights that were mainly meant to disapprove the spontaneous generation theory. Another scientist who made a lot of discoveries was Koch. He was specialized in the field of disease causatives. He made some discoveries on novel microorganisms that caused diseases in organisms hence the disease and germ theory (Klein, 2002). Also, Koch contributed much to the culture of microorganisms which became a mode of study for most discoveries in microbiology.
Microbiology and Health
A great contribution has been made in the health field through studies in microbiology. Major research work is being done on the treatment of flu and Tuberculosis (Tang, 2009). A perfect cure for these diseases has not been found yet. Therefore, research microbiologists, lab technologists, and clinicians are doing collective research work in the field for continuity of research studies to come up with curatives for treatment and vaccines that would help prevent the spread of such infectious diseases (Land, 1999). Another contribution of microbiology is in the area of sample analysis for disease diagnosis, infections, outbreaks, and management.
Microbiology and Agriculture
Agriculture and microbiology are two inseparable disciplines. For the agricultural sector to flourish, soil issues and plant issues must be addressed. Microbiology provides an avenue to cater to these issues. Studies in agriculture involve soil studies for the presence of microbes that are important for plants and those that pose threat to the plants and crops (Insam, 2001). In addition, some studies involve pests and the diseases they cause in plants. Studies involving diseases and pest control have resulted in growth in the agricultural sector. Moreover, these pests have been found to infest crops and even farm animals hence leading to reduced production. Major studies in this field have greatly contributed to agricultural development.
Microbiology and Industry
Industrial microbiology has had a great impact on the safety and control of manufactured products (Wackett, 2002). Recombinant technology and biotechnology have been exploited for the production of industrial components such as food, cosmetics, medicine, biochemical products, and even toiletries. These products are very useful to human being especially food which is a basic need. Advancement in this field can help alleviate certain insufficiency hence contributing to good health and high standards of living to people who can afford the products.
Microbiology and Environment
Certain issues can be addressed using microbiological studies. The environment comprises components that are both biotic and biotic (Tillet, 1995). Accumulation of toxic matters in the environment poses health risks to people and other biotic components. These toxic materials can be eliminated by the use of microbes and decomposition strategies. Research scientists are still assembling findings of ways that can help change the environment positively and make it a better place to exist in.
Reference List
Brul, S. Femke I.C., Mensonides, K. J., Hellingwerf, M., Joost T. M. (2008). Microbial systems biology. International Journal Food Microbiology. 128.1. 16-21.
Insam, H. (2001). Soil Microbiology. Geoderma, 100(3), 389-402. Web.
Klein, A. D., Lansing, M. P. and John, P. H. (2002). Scope and History of Microbiology. Web.
Land, F. (1999). Focus: Drug Resistance. Trends in Microbiology, 7(9), 344-345. Web.
Tang, Y. (2009). Diagnostic Microbiology. Encyclopedia of Microbiology. 308-320. Web.
Tillet, H. (1995). Environmental Microbiology and Quality control. Water Science and Technology, 31(5), 471-477. Web.
Wackett, L. (2002). Industrial and Ecological Microbiology-Microbial Diversity. Current Opinion in Microbiology, 5(1), 37-239. Web.