A Pigment Produced by an Opportunistic Pathogen That Contributes to Tissue

Question

A pigment produced by an opportunistic pathogen that contributes to tissue damage is
A) pyocyanin.
B) streptokinase.
C) M protein.
D) lipase.
E) hyaluronidase.

Accepted Answer

Pyocyanin is produced by the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa and contributes to tissue damage by generating reactive oxygen species that damage host cells. Streptokinase is an enzyme produced by Streptococcus pyogenes that helps the pathogen dissolve blood clots to spread its infection. M protein is a virulence factor produced by S. pyogenes that helps the pathogen evade the host immune system. Lipase and hyaluronidase are enzymes produced by various bacteria that help break down lipids and connective tissues, respectively, and contribute to tissue damage, but do not necessarily generate pigments.