Which of the Following Structures Enables Microbes to Attach to Cell

Question

Which of the following structures enables microbes to attach to cell surfaces?
A)Adhesins.
B)Pili.
C)Fimbriae.
D)Glycocalyx.
E)All of the above.

Accepted Answer

All of the structures listed (adhesins, pili, fimbriae, and glycocalyx) can enable microbes to attach to cell surfaces. Adhesins are specific molecules found on the surface of microbes that allow them to bind to target host cells. Pili and fimbriae are hair-like structures found on the surface of bacteria that also aid in adhesion to host cells. The glycocalyx is a slime layer made up of polysaccharides that some microbes produce and use for adhesion to host cells. Thus, all of these structures can aid in microbial attachment and invasion.