Which of the following is the best definition of "microbial antagonism"?
A) the presence of pathogens on the surface of the skin, which will invade the body through abrasions
B) the presence of normal microbiota that protect the body by competing with pathogens in a variety of ways to prevent pathogens from invading the body
C) the presence of normal microbiota that can become pathogens under certain conditions
D) the ability of microbiota to mutate into pathogens
E) the presence of resident bacteria on the surface of the body and in cavities that connect to the surface

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Microbial antagonism refers to the ability of normal microbiota to protect the body by competing with pathogens in various ways, such as occupying niches and producing antimicrobial substances. Option A is incorrect because the presence of pathogens on the skin does not necessarily suggest microbial antagonism. Option C is incorrect because normal microbiota do not become pathogens under typical circumstances, although they can cause disease if they enter other parts of the body where they do not belong. Option D is incorrect because microbiota cannot mutate into pathogens, although some can acquire virulence genes through horizontal gene transfer. Option E is incorrect because it describes the physical location of microbiota, rather than their role in protecting the body.

Which of the Following Is the Best Definition of "Microbial