Normal Microbiota

Question

Normal microbiota
A) are the organisms that typically reside on and in your body.
B) protect against infection by pathogens.
C) enhance infection by pathogens.
D) play no role in affecting pathogen growth.
E) are the organisms that typically reside on and in your body AND protect against infection by pathogens.

Accepted Answer

Normal microbiota are the microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses, that typically reside on and in the human body. They can protect against infection by pathogens by competing for resources and occupying niches, making it harder for pathogens to establish themselves. Therefore, the best choice is E, which includes both (A) and (B). Options C and D are incorrect because normal microbiota do not typically enhance infection by pathogens, nor do they play no role in affecting pathogen growth.