Laboratory Experiments in Microbiology (12th Edition) (What's New in Microbiology)
Laboratory Experiments in Microbiology (12th Edition) (What's New in Microbiology)
12th Edition
ISBN: 9780134605203
Author: Ted R. Johnson, Christine L. Case
Publisher: PEARSON
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Chapter 20, Problem 2Q
Summary Introduction

To determine:

The optimum growth temperature for human pathogens.

Introduction:

Human pathogens are the microorganisms that are

responsible for causing disease in humans. They may enter the human body by puncturing

the mucosae or skin. A human pathogen may either invade internal organs or may

colonize the skin surface.

Expert Solution & Answer
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Explanation of Solution

Microorganisms are adapted to survive in a wide range of temperatures.

Temperature plays a crucial role in the metabolic processes of these organisms. Several

enzymes stop functioning, cell membrane distorts, and cellular integrity is

lost at temperatures higher or lower than the temperature range of a microorganism.

A pathogen capable of infecting humans can easily grow on the temperature range of the human body. The human body temperature is around 37°C. Therefore human pathogens also have optimum growth temperatures around 37°C.

Conclusion

The optimum growth temperature of human pathogens is 37°C.

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