Chapter 25, Problem 5R

Summary Introduction

To review:

Mycotoxin with an example.

Introduction:

Microorganisms that have the ability to cause infectious diseases are called as pathogens. Such microorganisms include bacteria, fungi, virus, and protozoa. Illness in an individual is caused either by disturbing the normal metabolic activity of the host or by inducing the host’s immune system to produce a response. Some organisms have the ability to produce secondary metabolites. Such compounds are not required for the survival and proliferation of the organism, but they aid in other important functions, including protection and competition.