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Question
Biology
Posted 9 months ago
what characterists of strep. pneumoniae can greatly enhance virulence
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Answer from Sia
Posted 9 months ago
Answer
Characteristics of Streptococcus pneumoniae that enhance virulence include its capsule, pneumolysin production, and surface proteins.
Solution
a
Capsule : The presence of a polysaccharide capsule is a major virulence factor for S. pneumoniae. It inhibits phagocytosis by host immune cells, allowing the bacteria to evade the host's immune response
b
Pneumolysin : This toxin can cause damage to the host's respiratory epithelial cells, interfere with ciliary function, and activate the immune system, leading to inflammation
c
Surface proteins : Proteins such as the choline-binding protein A (CbpA) and pneumococcal surface protein A (PspA) help the bacteria adhere to host cells and evade immune detection
Key Concept
Virulence factors of Streptococcus pneumoniae
Explanation
The capsule, pneumolysin, and surface proteins are key virulence factors that enable Streptococcus pneumoniae to cause disease by evading the host immune system and damaging host tissues.

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