BRAINCAKETransmission of Pathogens
Some pathogens can be cultured and identified using a microscope.
Modern methods of identifying pathogens use monoclonal antibodies that recognise specific antigens on the pathogen.
DNA sequencing can identify a specific strain of a virus.
Sign in free to see the rest of this lesson, the R.E.C.I.P.E. recall steps and the quiz
BrainCake is free. Make an account in seconds and pick up where this page stops.
Key terms in this lesson
- pathogen
- A microorganism that causes disease.
- vector
- An organism, such as an insect, that transmits a pathogen from one host to another.
- antigen
- A molecule, usually a protein, on the surface of a cell or pathogen that triggers an immune response.
- antibody
- A Y-shaped protein (immunoglobulin) produced by B plasma cells that binds specifically to a particular antigen.
More in Communicable Diseases
- Influenza
- Zoonotic Influenza
- Malaria
- Fungal Diseases
- Factors Affecting Transmission in Animals
- Transmission of Pathogens Between Plants
- Plant Defences against Pathogens
- Mammals - non-Specific Defences
All 40 lessons in Communicable Diseases · All OCR AS-level Biology topics