What is the primary role of DNA in microbial resistance?
(a) It helps bacteria and fungi evade detection by the immune system
(b) It instructs germs to develop specific resistance mechanisms
(c) It increases the production of antibiotics within the germ
(d) It eliminates the need for antimicrobial treatment

Question

What is the primary role of DNA in microbial resistance?
(a) It helps bacteria and fungi evade detection by the immune system
(b) It instructs germs to develop specific resistance mechanisms
(c) It increases the production of antibiotics within the germ
(d) It eliminates the need for antimicrobial treatment

ONLiNE UPSC · Accepted Answer

To survive, germs can develop defense strategies against antibiotics and antifungals called resistance mechanisms. DNA tells the germ how to make specific proteins, which determine the germ's resistance mechanisms. Bacteria and fungi can carry genes for many types of resistance. Alarmingly, antimicrobial-resistant germs can share their resistance mechanisms with other germs that have not been exposed to antibiotics or antifungals.

Microbiology

Microbial Resistance

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M Question 1	⏱ 0
What is the primary role of DNA in microbial resistance? (a) It helps bacteria and fungi evade detection by the immune system (b) It instructs germs to develop specific resistance mechanisms (c) It increases the production of antibiotics within the germ (d) It eliminates the need for antimicrobial treatment