Textbook Question
Endotoxin is responsible for symptoms caused by which of the following organisms?
a. N. meningitidis
b. S. pyogenes
c. L. monocytogenes
d. C. tetani
e. C. botulinum
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21. Principles of Disease
Endotoxin Causes Damage to the Host
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
What part of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is the dangerous portion of the endotoxin during bacterial infections?
A
O-antigen.
B
Lipid-A.
C
Core Polysaccharide.
D
The entire lipopolysaccharide molecule.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the structure of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), which is a major component of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. It consists of three parts: O-antigen, core polysaccharide, and Lipid A.
Recognize that Lipid A is the hydrophobic anchor of LPS and is embedded in the bacterial membrane. It is responsible for the toxic effects of LPS, making it the endotoxin component.
Learn that when Gram-negative bacteria die, they release LPS into the host's system, where Lipid A can trigger a strong immune response.
Identify that the immune response to Lipid A can lead to symptoms such as fever, inflammation, and in severe cases, septic shock, which is why it is considered the dangerous portion of the endotoxin.
Differentiate between the roles of the O-antigen and core polysaccharide, which are primarily involved in immune evasion and structural stability, respectively, rather than being directly toxic.
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