Immune System Disorders Quizlet Related

Review Immune System Disorders Quizlet related questions and content

Virulence factors can be transferred from pathogenic to non-pathogenic bacterial strains that are part of the normal flora. An example of a commensal bacterial species that has turned into a pathogenic strain is:

  • A. E. coli 0157:H7
  • B. M. tuberculosis
  • C. Group A S. pyogenes
  • D. All opportunistic bacterial species
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: E. coli 0157:H7. This strain of E. coli has acquired virulence factors that allow it to cause severe illness in humans, such as bloody diarrhea and kidney failure. The transformation of E. coli from a commensal to a pathogenic strain is well-documented. In contrast, choices B and C involve species that are inherently pathogenic and not commensal. Choice D is too broad and includes a wide range of bacterial species that do not necessarily originate from the normal flora. Therefore, E. coli 0157:H7 is the best example of a commensal bacterium that has turned pathogenic due to the acquisition of virulence factors.