Multiple Choice
What would be the fate of a lytic bacteriophage if its host cell died before the assembly stage?
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1. Introduction to Microbiology
Acellular Infectious Agents: Viruses, Viroids & Prions
Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes a key difference between an enterotoxin and an endotoxin?
A
Enterotoxins are secreted proteins that target the intestines, while endotoxins are lipopolysaccharides found in the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria.
B
Enterotoxins are only produced by viruses, whereas endotoxins are produced by bacteria.
C
Enterotoxins are components of the bacterial cell wall, while endotoxins are secreted enzymes that disrupt host cell membranes.
D
Enterotoxins cause fever, while endotoxins cause diarrhea.
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Understand the definitions of enterotoxins and endotoxins. Enterotoxins are toxins that specifically target the intestines and are typically secreted by bacteria.
Step 2: Recognize that endotoxins are components of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, specifically lipopolysaccharides (LPS), and are not secreted but released when the bacterial cell is lysed.
Step 3: Compare the nature of the two toxins: enterotoxins are proteins actively secreted by bacteria, while endotoxins are structural molecules part of the bacterial cell wall.
Step 4: Note the effects of each toxin: enterotoxins often cause symptoms like diarrhea by affecting intestinal cells, whereas endotoxins can trigger systemic responses such as fever and inflammation.
Step 5: Use this information to identify the correct description: enterotoxins are secreted proteins targeting intestines, and endotoxins are lipopolysaccharides found in the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria.
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