Propionibacterium acnes is a normal member of the skin microbiome that benefits the body by lowering the skin's pH- an antimicrobial effect. However, P. acnes is also the leading cause of acne. Explain mechanistically how a bacterium can be part of the normal microbiome and beneficial but also be pathogenic.

Microbiology for Surgical Technologists (MindTap Course List)
2nd Edition
ISBN:9781111306663
Author:Margaret Rodriguez, Paul Price
Publisher:Margaret Rodriguez, Paul Price
Chapter9: Microbial Disease Transmission
Section: Chapter Questions
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Propionibacterium acnes is a normal member of the skin microbiome that benefits the body by lowering the skin's pH- an antimicrobial effect. However, P. acnes is also the leading cause of acne. Explain mechanistically how a bacterium can be part of the normal microbiome and beneficial but also be pathogenic.

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