Mechanisms of Pathogenicity

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the mechanisms of pathogenicity as discussed in the lecture notes.

Pathogen

A colonized microbe capable of causing harm to the host.

Infection

Successful colonization of a microorganism within the host.

Virulence

The degree of pathogenicity of a microbe, indicating the severity of disease it can cause.

Opportunistic Pathogen

A pathogen that causes disease when the host's immune defenses are compromised.

Koch's Postulates

A set of criteria used to establish a causative relationship between a microbe and a disease.

Infectious Dose (ID50)

The number of microbes needed to cause an infection in 50% of hosts.

Exotoxins

Toxins secreted by bacteria that can damage host cells or disrupt specific physiological functions.

Endotoxins

Components of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, released when the bacteria die, that can trigger inflammation.

Cytotoxin

A toxin that kills host cells or inhibits their function.

Superantigens

Viral or bacterial proteins that elicit a strong immune response by nonspecifically activating T-cells.