Bacteria Vs. Virus Vs. Prions

Bacteria are  considered to be living things. They are small and are found to be with million other cells because they can multiply fast. They are single celled organisms. Their are different bacterial species . Each species has its own characteristics and has certain requirements in order for it to grow. Many bacteria tend to grow in cool places or others in moist areas. Bacteria can often lead to diseases, which is why it is important to cover a open wounded cut, in order to prevent bacteria from seeping in. It is also important in food. Many bacteria have metabolisms that helps in the digestion of sugar but not proteins. Bacteria can also be used to help preserve food as well.

Viruses are infectious and they multiply inside cells of other organisms. Like Bacteria they are very small and can only be seen with light microscopes. They can infect all types of organisms including bacteria. Unlike prions, viruses have genes made from DNA or RNA. They have a protein coat to protect these genes. It is unclear how viruses came to be, however there is speculation that it resulted from plasmids and bacteria. Viruses spread fast. It is often transmitted from interactions. However, unlike Bacteria Viruses depend on their host in order to reproduce. Viruses attack and attach to the host cell by inserting its genetic material.Viruses are non living therefore they can not reproduce on their own, hence the host cell.

Prions have long incubation periods. They are not bacteria or fungi or viruses. It is a protein that appears harmless. Normal prions turn into rogue agents, which influences other normal prions to make the switch as well. It can cause fatal diseases due to the prion proteins. They are transmissible and compose of a modified protein. They cause diseases of the brain and nervous system.



http://www.disknet.com/indiana_biolab/b004.htm
http://www.ucmp.berkeley.edu/alllife/virus.html
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/prions/
http://www.news-medical.net/health/What-is-a-Virus.aspx