Chapter 23: Pathogens and Infection

Pathogens

They are microorganisms that can cause disease in their host organisms, including humans.

Human microbiota

It refers to the vast community of microorganisms that reside in and on the human body.

Dysbiosis

Imbalances or disruptions in the microbiota is known as dysbiosis.

Colonization resistance

The human microbiota plays a crucial role in preventing pathogen colonization and infection through various mechanisms, collectively known as colonization resistance.

Infection

It is a complex process that involves the interaction between pathogens and host cells at the cellular and molecular levels.

Cell biology of infection

It encompasses the processes by which pathogens enter host cells, manipulate host cellular machinery, and evade host immune responses.

Viruses

Acellular, neither living nor non-living.

Well-known pathogens

the influenza virus, Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, Candida fungi, and Plasmodium parasites causing malaria.

lysosomal degradation

they evade or subvert host cell