Question

If you wanted to design a drug to prevent prokaryotic cells from attaching to substrates, which structure should the drug attack?

Answer 1

To design a drug that prevents prokaryotic cells from attaching to substrates, one should target structures like the capsule, pili, or fimbriae, which are responsible for adherence.

Step-by-step explanation:

If you wanted to design a drug to prevent prokaryotic cells from attaching to substrates, you should target structures responsible for adherence such as the capsule, pili, or fimbriae. The capsule allows cells to attach to surfaces in their environment and is involved in the formation of biofilms. Fimbriae also play a critical role in the attachment process to host cells. Pili, while mainly involved in genetic material exchange during conjugation, also assist in attachment to surfaces

Therefore, a drug targeting the synthesis or function of these structures could potentially prevent prokaryotic attachment to substrates. However, it is crucial to consider the natural resistance mechanisms such as target modification and prevention of cellular uptake or efflux, which bacteria might evolve against such drugs.

Answer 2

Prokaryotic cell are unicellular organisms. They usually attached to substrate through their appendages. Their appendages are found on their cell wall. To prevent this organism from attaching to their substrate the drugs should primarily attack the cell wall of the prokaryote. This will prevent them form attaching and allowing harmful compounds in entering the cell.