Which of the following is a primary function of bacterial capsules?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Adhesion and immune evasion. Bacterial capsules serve as a protective layer that aids in adhesion to surfaces and host cells, allowing bacteria to colonize and evade the immune system. This function is crucial for bacterial survival and pathogenicity. Choices A and D are incorrect because energy production and DNA replication are not primary functions of bacterial capsules. Choice B is incorrect because while bacterial capsules do provide some protection from desiccation, their primary function lies in adhesion and immune evasion.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: All of the above. - Streptococcus pneumoniae is a common cause of community-acquired pneumonia. - Mycobacterium tuberculosis can cause pulmonary tuberculosis, which can present as pneumonia-like symptoms. - Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen that can cause pneumonia in immunocompromised individuals. Therefore, all three bacteria can cause pneumonia, making option D the correct choice. Options A, B, and C are incorrect because they each represent a bacterium that can cause pneumonia, so only selecting one of them would not encompass all common causes of pneumonia.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because all three bacteria (Clostridium botulinum, Salmonella enterica, Escherich:ia coli) are known to produce toxins causing foodborne illnesses. Clostridium botulinum produces botulinum toxin, causing botulism. Salmonella enterica produces toxins leading to salmonellosis. Escherichia coli can produce toxins like Shiga toxin causing food poisoning. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because each bacterium is individually known to produce toxins causing foodborne illnesses, thus the correct answer is D.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This bacterium is responsible for causing tuberculosis. It is a slow-growing, acid-fast bacillus that primarily affects the lungs. Mycobacterium tuberculosis is transmitted through the air via respiratory droplets. Choice B, Streptococcus pneumoniae, is a common cause of pneumonia but not tuberculosis. Choice C, Salmonella enterica, causes food poisoning. Choice D, Neisseria meningitidis, causes meningitis, not tuberculosis. Therefore, Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the correct answer based on its characteristics and mode of transmission.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This bacterium is responsible for causing tuberculosis. Mycobacterium leprae (choice A) causes leprosy, not tuberculosis. Streptococcus pneumoniae (choice C) is known for causing pneumonia, not tuberculosis. Neisseria gonorrhoeae (choice D) is responsible for causing gonorrhea, not tuberculosis. Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the specific bacterium associated with tuberculosis due to its ability to infect the lungs and other organs, leading to the characteristic symptoms of the disease.