Mycolic acids are exclusively present in Mycobacterium spp.and can be distinguished by a(n)________ staining procedure (which is,therefore,a diagnostic utility to identify mycobacteria).
A) acid-fast
B) DAPI
C) Gram
D) lipo

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Acid-fast staining procedure involves using a strong acid (such as hydrochloric acid) to penetrate the mycolic acid layer and then a basic stain (such as carbolfuchsin) to bind to the exposed cell wall, resulting in bright red or pink-stained mycobacteria. This staining procedure is not effective for other types of bacteria, which is why it is a diagnostic utility to identify mycobacteria. The other choices (DAPI, Gram, lipo) are not specific to mycobacteria and do not involve the use of acid to distinguish the bacteria.

Mycolic Acids Are Exclusively Present in Mycobacterium Spp