Lecture 7&8 Pathogenicity

Question 1

Define Commensalism

Answer 1

Where one pair of organism (usually the bacterium) benefits and the other is unaffected (e.g many skin bacteria)

Question 2

Define Mutualism

Answer 2

Interdependent with both benefitting (e.g coli in the large intestine is provided with a warm and nutrient-rich environment but provides some vitamins)

Question 3

Define Parasitic

Answer 3

Where one organism benefits and the other is affected negatively

Question 4

Define Pathogenic

Answer 4

Disease-producing

Question 5

Define Infection

Answer 5

Colonisation by pathogenic bacteria

Question 6

Define Communicable

Answer 6

When it is spread from one host to another

Question 7

Define Contagious

Answer 7

When easily spread from one host to another

Question 8

Define Non-Communicable

Answer 8

Not transmitted between organisms (usually genetic)

Question 9

List the 5 Requirements for Pathogenicity

Answer 9

1) Be transmitted from a reservoir
2) Enter into the body (via a portal of entry)
3) Invade target cells or organs
4) Produce molecules which deleteriously affect the host
5) Have a means of exit to transmit infection further

Question 10

What does Biofilm do?

Answer 10

Bacteria growing on plastics obtain a substance called biofilm adds a protective outer film to the bacteria. This renders antibiotics ineffective.

Question 11

Name the Three Reservoirs of Infection

Answer 11

1) Infected Individuals or carriers
2) Animal reservoirs
3) Non-living reservoirs e.g soil, water