Biology : Microbes In Human Welfare

Q 4 / 10

UPSC CSE Prelims 2022

Consider the following statements :
  1. Biofilms can form on medical implants within human tissues.
  2. Biofilms can form on food and food processing surfaces.
  3. Biofilms can exhibit antibiotic resistance.
Which of the statements given above are correct ?

EXPLANATION

Correct Option

The correct option is 1, 2 and 3.

Explanation

Biofilms are structured communities of microorganisms embedded in a self-produced extracellular matrix, capable of forming on both living and non-living surfaces.

Statement-wise Analysis

  • Statement 1: Correct.
    Biofilms commonly develop on medical implants such as catheters, prosthetic joints, and cardiac devices within human tissues, contributing to persistent infections.
  • Statement 2: Correct.
    Biofilms can form on food items and on surfaces used in food processing, posing risks of contamination and foodborne illnesses.
  • Statement 3: Correct.
    Microorganisms within biofilms exhibit enhanced resistance to antibiotics due to protective extracellular matrices and altered metabolic states.

Key Takeaway

Biofilms are resilient microbial communities capable of forming on diverse surfaces and exhibiting significant antibiotic resistance.

SOURCEAncient India by R.S. Sharma, Chapter 9: Later Vedic Period