Biology 1.1 Pathogens

Pathogen = micro-organism that causes disease Disease = malfunction of body or mind which has an adverse effect on social, physical or mental health. Micro-organisms as pathogens A pathogen must: gain entry to the host colonise the host's tissue resist the defences of the hose cause damage to the host tissues Includes bacteria, viruses and fungi. Infection = when a pathogen gets into the host and colonises the tissue. Disease occurs when infection leads to symptoms. Transmission = transfer of pathogen from one organism to another. How do microorganisms get into the body? Penetrates one of the body's interfaces Interface = surface or boundary linking two systems e.g. external environment with…