MCB 100 Chapter 20.2 Terms

Capsules that protect the bacteria from phagocytosis and antibodies, and provide a poorly immunogenic surface.

Fimbriae and proteins called adhesins, which enable the bacteria to attach tightly to human cells.

Exotoxins that cause a variety of symptoms such as diarrhea. The genes for exotoxins, fimbriae, and adhesins are frequently located on plasmids, which increases the likelihood that they will be transferred among bacteria.

Iron-binding compounds called siderophores that capture iron and make it available to the bacteria.

Hemolysins, which release nutrients such as iron by lysing red blood cells.