Question

What do SNAse and DNAse do in S. aureus?

1) They are enzymes involved in DNA replication
2) They are enzymes involved in RNA transcription
3) They are enzymes involved in protein synthesis
4) They are enzymes involved in DNA degradation

Answer 1

SNAse and DNAse in S. aureus are enzymes involved in DNA degradation, helping the bacteria escape entrapment by extracellular DNA and evade the immune system's defense mechanisms.

Step-by-step explanation:

Enzymes like SNAse and DNAse produced by Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) are involved in DNA degradation. These nucleases play a crucial role in helping the bacteria escape from entrapment by masses of extracellular DNA that accumulate when bacterial and host cells die and lysate at the site of infection. The abundant DNA forms a physical barrier that can trap bacteria, preventing their spread. By producing DNAse, S. aureus can degrade this mesh of extracellular DNA and spread to adjacent tissues. Additionally, these enzymes help the pathogens to evade the immune response, as phagocytes release nets of extracellular DNA to trap bacteria, which the bacteria then degrade using their DNAse.