Host-Microbe Interactions and Immunity

These flashcards cover key concepts related to host-microbe interactions, the immune response, pathogen behavior, and epidemiology, facilitating review for the exam.

What are mutualists in the context of host-microbe interactions?

Mutualists are symbionts that provide benefits to both the host and the microbe.

What is the primary function of commensal bacteria?

Commensals benefit from the host while having no significant impact on it.

Define a pathogen in terms of its effect on the host?

A pathogen is a microbe that causes disease and is detrimental to the host.

What is microbial antagonism?

Microbial antagonism refers to the ability of commensals to competitively exclude pathogens from colonizing the host.

What are exotoxins?

Exotoxins are secreted toxins produced by pathogens that can damage host cells.

What is an endotoxin?

Endotoxins are parts of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria that trigger inflammatory responses in the host.

What does the term dysbiosis refer to?

Dysbiosis refers to a disruption in a 'healthy' microbiome.

What are Koch's postulates?

Koch's postulates are a set of criteria to identify the causative agent of a disease.

What are the four portals of entry for pathogens discussed in the notes?

The respiratory, gastrointestinal, urogenital tracts, and skin.

What is the difference between acute and chronic disease?

Acute diseases have rapid onset and develop quickly, while chronic diseases are slow and persistent.

What is the purpose of universal precautions in healthcare?

Universal precautions are used to prevent the transmission of infections through barriers and sterilization.

Define the role of phagocytes in the innate immune response.

Phagocytes, such as neutrophils and macrophages, engulf and digest pathogens.

What is the significance of self-tolerance in the immune system?

Self-tolerance prevents the immune system from attacking the body's own cells.

What types of infections are classified as nosocomial?

Nosocomial infections are healthcare-associated infections typically caused by bacteria.

What is the basic reproduction number (Ro)?

Ro is the average number of individuals that one infected person will infect.

Define virulence in the context of infectious diseases.

Virulence is the degree of pathogenicity or damage caused by a pathogen.

What is meant by the term opportunistic pathogen?

Opportunistic pathogens are those that cause disease primarily in immunocompromised hosts.

How do bacteria evade the host immune response?

Bacteria may evade the immune response through the production of slime layers or capsules.

What is the role of cytokines in the immune response?

Cytokines are signaling molecules that regulate immune responses and inflammation.