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Bacteriophages are viruses that use bacteria as host cells - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 28 - 2016 - Paper 1
Question 28
Bacteriophages are viruses that use bacteria as host cells. One type of bacteriophage infects only one species of bacterial cell. The infected cells are destroyed as... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Bacteriophages are viruses that use bacteria as host cells - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 28 - 2016 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain TWO advantages of using bacteriophage treatment compared to antibiotic treatment for bacterial infections:
Answer
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Specificity: Bacteriophages are highly specific to their bacterial hosts, which means they can target and infect only the harmful bacteria without affecting beneficial microflora. This reduces the risk of dysbiosis, a condition caused by antibiotics that can lead to other health issues.
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Resistance Development: Bacteria can develop resistance to antibiotics, making them ineffective. However, bacteriophages can evolve alongside bacteria, potentially overcoming bacterial resistance mechanisms. This adaptability allows bacteriophage therapy to remain effective even against resistant bacterial strains.
Step 2
Describe a possible disadvantage of using bacteriophage treatment.
Answer
One possible disadvantage of bacteriophage treatment is the limited efficacy against biofilms. Biofilms are protective layers created by bacteria that can make them less susceptible to both antibiotics and bacteriophages. This means that infections underlying biofilms may not respond well to bacteriophage therapy, limiting its overall effectiveness.