Question

Which of the following describes how a pathogenic bacterium might be affected by antibodies?

a. the antibodies may block proteins necessary for binding the pathogen to the host.
b. The antibodies may coat the surface of the bacteria, preventing opsonization.
c. The antibodies bound to a pathogen may catalyze the production of hydrogen peroxide, which will then kill the pathogen.
d. The antibodies may stick to multiple bacteria causing agglutination.
e. The antibodies may bind to a pathogen triggering complement via the alternative pathway

Answer 1

Antibodies affect pathogenic bacteria by blocking binding to host cells, causing agglutination, and activating the complement system, which can lead to the pathogen's destruction.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks how a pathogenic bacterium might be affected by antibodies. Options include antibodies blocking necessary proteins for pathogen binding to the host, preventing opsonization, inducing hydrogen peroxide production, causing agglutination, or triggering complement via the alternative pathway. According to our reference information, antibodies function by:

• Blocking the antigen from binding its target.
• Tagging a pathogen for destruction by macrophages or neutrophils (opsonization).
• Activating the complement cascade.

Thus, the correct option that describes how antibodies may affect a pathogenic bacterium is that the antibodies may block proteins necessary for the pathogen to bind to the host, as they can also cause agglutination by sticking to multiple bacteria, and activate the complement pathway which leads to the pathogen's destruction. Specifically, options (a), (d), and (e) are correct as per the references provided.