Textbook Question
Label acetylcholine. Color the sites of action of botulism toxin on a nerve cell.
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21. Principles of Disease
Introduction to Pathogenic Toxins
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
A pathogen can indirectly damage its host by:
A
producing essential vitamins for the host
B
directly lysing host cells
C
stimulating an excessive immune response
D
inhibiting its own replication
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the question is asking about indirect damage caused by a pathogen to its host, meaning harm that is not a direct effect of the pathogen's physical actions on host cells.
Review each option to determine if it represents direct or indirect damage: producing essential vitamins benefits the host, so it is not damaging; directly lysing host cells is a direct form of damage.
Recognize that stimulating an excessive immune response causes the host's own immune system to overreact, which can lead to tissue damage and inflammation—this is an indirect effect of the pathogen.
Note that inhibiting its own replication would not harm the host and is unrelated to damage mechanisms.
Conclude that the correct choice is the one where the pathogen causes harm by triggering the host's immune system excessively, which is an indirect form of damage.
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