Question

In which way have microbes played a major role in controlling diseases caused by harmful bacteria?

Answer 1

Several microorganisms are used for preparing medicines. Antibiotics are medicines produced by certain micro-organisms to kill other disease-causing microorganisms. These medicines are commonly obtained from bacteria and fungi. They either kill or stop the growth of disease-causing micro-organisms. Streptomycin, tetracycline, and penicillin are common antibiotics. Penicillium notatum produces the chemical penicillin, which checks the growth of staphylococci bacteria in the body. Antibiotics are designed to destroy bacteria by weakening their cell walls. As a result of this weakening, specific immune cells, such as the white blood cells, enter the bacterial cell and cause cell lysis. Cell lysis is the process of destroying cells such as blood cells and bacteria.

Answer 2

Microbes have played a major role in controlling diseases caused by harmful bacteria, mainly by producing antibiotics that kill or inhibit these bacteria and also by acting as biocontrol agents to manage microbial pathogens.