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3. a) Clostridium tetani is a bacterium that can be found in soil - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 3 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 3
3. a) Clostridium tetani is a bacterium that can be found in soil. It causes the infection tetanus. Children are vaccinated against tetanus. Explain why these childr... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:3. a) Clostridium tetani is a bacterium that can be found in soil - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 3 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain why these children do not get tetanus if the bacteria enter their body through a cut in the skin.
Answer
Children are vaccinated against tetanus, which means they have developed immunity. The vaccine contains inactivated toxins or a weakened form of the bacteria, prompting the immune system to produce antibodies. These antibodies target the tetanus toxin effectively, neutralizing it before it can cause illness. Furthermore, the immune memory created allows for a rapid response to any future exposure to the toxin, ensuring that even if Clostridium tetani enters through a cut, the immune system is primed to prevent the disease.
Step 2
Explain how these bacteria have become resistant to Colistin.
Answer
Bacteria can become resistant to Colistin through several mechanisms. One common method is the mutation in genes responsible for the bacterial cell membrane structure, which prevents Colistin from binding effectively. Additionally, bacteria might acquire resistance genes from other organisms via plasmids or horizontal gene transfer. This adaptation allows them to survive in the presence of the antibiotic, making treatment less effective.