BEST MATCH
Enzyme released by replicating bacteria that destroy epidermal cells Endotoxin Coagulase Keratinase Exotoxins
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is Keratinase.
Explanation:
Keratinase is an enzyme that is released by certain bacteria during infection. It plays a significant role in breaking down keratin, a fibrous structural protein found in the skin, hair, and nails. Keratinase specifically targets and destroys epidermal cells, which makes it relevant to the process of infection in the skin and other keratin-rich tissues.
Now, let’s go over the other options to clarify why they are not the best match:
- Endotoxins are toxins that are part of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. When these bacteria die or divide, endotoxins are released. Endotoxins do not directly destroy epidermal cells but can cause a range of effects in the body, including fever, inflammation, and shock.
- Coagulase is an enzyme produced by certain bacteria (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus) that causes blood to clot. Coagulase contributes to bacterial virulence by forming clots around the bacteria, protecting them from the immune system. It is not involved in the destruction of epidermal cells but in clotting processes.
- Exotoxins are proteins secreted by bacteria that can cause damage to host cells. While exotoxins can lead to various types of cell damage, they do not specifically target keratin or epidermal cells as keratinase does.
In summary, keratinase is the enzyme best matched to the question because it specifically degrades the keratin in epidermal cells, leading to the destruction of skin tissue during certain bacterial infections.
