what characterists of strep. pneumoniae can greatly enhance virulence

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∻Answer∻ ⚹ Characteristics of Streptococcus pneumoniae that enhance virulence include its capsule, pneumolysin production, and surface proteins. ⚹ ∻Solution∻ ‖ a ⋮ Capsule ⋮ The presence of a polysaccharide capsule is a major virulence factor for S. pneumoniae. It inhibits phagocytosis by host immune cells, allowing the bacteria to evade the host's immune response. ‖ ‖ b ⋮ Pneumolysin ⋮ This toxin can cause damage to the host's respiratory epithelial cells, interfere with ciliary function, and activate the immune system, leading to inflammation. ‖ ‖ c ⋮ Surface proteins ⋮ Proteins such as the choline-binding protein A (CbpA) and pneumococcal surface protein A (PspA) help the bacteria adhere to host cells and evade immune detection. ‖ ∻Key Concept∻ ⚹ Virulence factors of Streptococcus pneumoniae ⚹ ∻Explanation∻ ⚹ The capsule, pneumolysin, and surface proteins are key virulence factors that enable Streptococcus pneumoniae to cause disease by evading the host immune system and damaging host tissues. ⚹◊How does the presence of a polysaccharide capsule in Streptococcus pneumoniae enhance its virulence?⍭ Generate me a similar question◊

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