Which virulence strategy helps bacteria avoid destruction by phagocytes and reactive oxygen species?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: Capsule production
Capsules inhibit phagocytosis and prevent recognition by immune cells. This reduces bacterial clearance by host defenses.
Practice all 17 Bacteria: Structure and Pathogenesis questions
Keep practicing
More Bacteria: Structure and Pathogenesis questions
- In Gram-positive bacteria, what is the function of teichoic acids in the cell wall?
- Which structural difference allows some Gram-negative bacteria to resist certain antibiotics and harsh chemicals better than Gram-positive…
- Which structural component is unique to bacterial cell walls and helps maintain their shape against osmotic pressure?
- What major difference distinguishes the cell envelope of Gram-negative bacteria from Gram-positive bacteria?
- Which bacterial structure is most commonly associated with resistance to phagocytosis and enhanced virulence?
- Why do Gram-positive bacteria retain the crystal violet stain but Gram-negative bacteria do not during Gram staining?