Inoculum
Inoculum
Inoculum (/ɪˈnɒkjʊləm/) is a term used in microbiology to refer to the material used for inoculation.
Etymology
The term "inoculum" is derived from the Latin word 'inoculare', meaning 'to graft'. In the context of microbiology, it refers to the introduction of microbes or other material into a culture medium.
Definition
Inoculum is a substance, such as bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, which is introduced into a culture medium to start a new colony. The size or volume of the inoculum is often referred to as the 'inoculum size' or 'inoculum dose'.
Usage
Inoculum is used in various fields of study including microbiology, virology, and immunology. It is often used in laboratory experiments to study the growth and behavior of microorganisms. In the medical field, inoculum is used in the development of vaccines and in the testing of antibiotics.
Related Terms
- Inoculation: The act of introducing an inoculum into a culture medium.
- Culture medium: A substance in which microorganisms are grown for scientific study.
- Colony (biology): A visible mass of microorganisms all originating from a single mother cell.
- Vaccine: A substance used to stimulate the production of antibodies and provide immunity against one or several diseases.
- Antibiotics: Drugs that fight infections caused by bacteria.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Inoculum
- Wikipedia's article - Inoculum
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