Mycobacteria are intracellular pathogens that have adapted to life inside phagocytic cells, such as macrophages. These intracellular bacteria are taken up by phagocytosis, similar to other pathogens, but the bacteria are not killed. One possible mechanism that could account for this immune evasion by mycobacteria is their ability to:
A) Prevent induction of nitric oxide production in the phagosome
B) Prevent the acidification of phagosomes
C) Prevent the expression of antimicrobial peptides in the phagosome
D) Prevent fusion of phagosomes with lysosomes
E) Kill the macrophage before it kills them

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mycobacteria are able to prevent fusion of phagosomes with lysosomes, which would otherwise expose them to the acidic and hydrolytic environment of lysosomes. This allows mycobacteria to survive inside the phagosome and continue to replicate.

Mycobacteria Are Intracellular Pathogens That Have Adapted to Life Inside