Question

Which of the following cell components produced by Neisseria gonorrhoeae is responsible for attachment to host cells ?

• A. Lipooligosaccharide
• B. Pili (fimbriae)
• C. IgA1 protease
• D. Outer membrane porin protein

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a bacterial pathogen responsible for gonorrhea, employs various cellular components to interact with host cells. Among these components:

• Lipooligosaccharide: This is a component of the bacterial outer membrane that plays a role in immune evasion but is not primarily used for attachment to host cells.
• Pili (fimbriae): These hair-like structures are present on the surface of the bacteria and are the main factors responsible for attachment to host cells. They enable the bacteria to adhere tightly to host epithelial cells, initiating infection.
• IgA1 protease: This enzyme assists in immune response evasion by degrading IgA antibodies but is not involved in attachment.
• Outer membrane porin protein: These proteins form channels in the bacterial outer membrane and can be involved in nutrient and ion transport but do not primarily function in cellular attachment.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Pili (fimbriae), as it directly facilitates the initial attachment to host epithelial cells.