Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: Shigella dysenteriae produces Shiga toxin, which inhibits protein synthesis by inactivating the 60S ribosomal subunit. This disrupts the translation process, leading to cell death. Escherichia coli (choice B) does not produce a toxin that inhibits protein synthesis. Clostridium tetani (choice C) produces tetanospasmin, which affects the nervous system. Staphylococcus aureus (choice D) produces toxins that cause food poisoning but do not inhibit protein synthesis.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Endospore. Endospores are dormant, tough, and non-reproductive structures formed by certain bacteria as a response to unfavorable conditions. They help bacteria survive harsh environments such as extreme temperatures, desiccation, and exposure to harmful chemicals. The other choices, Flagella (A), Capsule (B), and Pili (D), do not directly contribute to bacterial survival in adverse conditions. Flagella aid in bacterial movement, capsules provide protection from immune system attacks, and pili are involved in attachment to surfaces or other cells. Endospores are specifically designed for survival during unfavorable conditions, making them the correct choice in this scenario.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: IgM. IgM is the first antibody synthesized by the infant soon after birth. It is produced by B cells in response to initial exposure to antigens. IgA is mainly found in mucosal areas, IgG is transferred from mother to fetus, and IgD functions in the early stages of B cell development. Therefore, IgM is the most suitable choice as the antibody synthesized by the infant soon after birth.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This bacteria is responsible for causing tuberculosis because it is the specific pathogen known to infect the lungs and other parts of the body, leading to the disease. Mycobacterium tuberculosis has unique cell wall components that allow it to evade the immune system and survive in the host. Neisseria meningitidis (B) causes meningitis, not tuberculosis. Salmonella enterica (C) causes food poisoning, not tuberculosis. Streptococcus pneumoniae (D) causes pneumonia, not tuberculosis. Therefore, the correct answer is A based on the specific characteristics and pathogenicity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Protection against harsh conditions. Bacterial endospores are dormant structures produced by certain bacteria as a survival strategy under unfavorable conditions. They protect the bacterial DNA and other essential components from damage caused by heat, chemicals, desiccation, and radiation. Endospores do not directly participate in energy production (A), DNA replication (B), or protein synthesis (D). These functions are carried out by the active, vegetative form of the bacterial cell.