PATHOGEN DETECTION
Identification of The Microscopic Killers
DID YOU
KNOW?
At least 2 billion people drink water from sources contaminated with feces around the world.
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WHAT ARE PATHOGENS?
Pathogens are microorganisms that are capable of causing a disease in a viable host. There are five main types of pathogens: bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and helminths. Recently, however, prions were also added to the list of pathogens. Although all pathogens have similarities to one another, each one have their own unique characteristics in inflicting their host.
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Key Things to Note:
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The term "infection" is used when the pathogen enters a host and begins to multiply within it.
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The term "disease" is used ONLY when the pathogen growth causes damage to the tissue
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Disease and infection are not interchangeable words
PATHOGEN DETECTION TECHNIQUES
Techniques for pathogen detection depend on the transmission of the disease. Some ways of transmission are more difficult to detect, especially air-borne diseases. These techniques would lead to a diagnosis of the infectious disease. Examples of doing so would be through the antibodies or specific proteins that are unique to the disease.
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WHAT IS IT USED FOR?
Pathogen detection plays an important role in research for many fields. With this technology, scientists are able to apply it to biodefense, animal health care, forensics, and food safety. All of these fields work to protect and prepare us for illness.
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Kamille Maningding
Sheldon High School
8333 Kingsbridge Dr, Sacramento, CA 95829
(916) 897-4741