NEET BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -All viruses are obligate pathogens as they are dependent on the cellular machinery of their host for their reproduction. Obligate pathogens are found among bacteria, including the agents of tuberculosis and syphilis, as well as protozoans (such as those causing malaria) and macroparasites.

Detailed explanation-2: -Most bacteria are not pathogenic. Those that are contain specific virulence genes that mediate interactions with the host, eliciting particular responses from the host cells that promote the replication and spread of the pathogen.

Detailed explanation-3: -There are different types of pathogens, but we’re going to focus on the four most common types: viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites.

Detailed explanation-4: -Typically, the term pathogen is used to describe an infectious microorganism or agent, such as a virus, bacterium, protozoan, prion, viroid, or fungus. Small animals, such as helminths and insects, can also cause or transmit disease. However, these animals are usually referred to as parasites rather than pathogens.