Use the Following Information to Answer the Question

question 71

Multiple Choice

Use the following information to answer the question.
Rose-picker's disease is caused by the yeast Sporothrix schenkii (S. schenkii) . The yeast grows on the exteriors of rose-bush thorns. If a human gets pricked by such a thorn, the yeasts can be introduced under the skin. The yeasts then assume a hyphal morphology and grow along the interiors of lymphatic vessels until they reach a lymph node. This often results in the accumulation of pus in the lymph node, which subsequently ulcerates through the skin surface and then drains.
Humans have immune systems in which lymph nodes are important, because many white blood cells (phagocytes and lymphocytes) reside there. Given that a successful infection by S. schenkii damages lymph nodes themselves, which of the following is most probable?

• A) The hyphae secrete antibiotics, which increases the ability of the infected human to tolerate the fungus.
• B) The fungal conversion from yeast to hyphal morphology allows such fast growth that the body's defenses are at least temporarily overwhelmed.
• C) Defensive cells of humans cannot detect foreign cells that are covered with cell walls composed of cellulose.
• D) Given that most fungal pathogens attack plants, human defenses are simply not adapted to seek out and destroy fungi.

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Definitions:

Fruit-Eating Bats

Bat species that play a crucial role in ecosystems by pollinating plants and dispersing seeds while feeding on fruit.

Habitat Islands

are patches of a particular type of habitat, such as forests or wetlands, isolated from one another by contrasting habitats, like urban or agricultural areas.

National Parks

Protected areas designated for the conservation of natural environments, biodiversity, and cultural heritage, and for public enjoyment.

Inbreeding

The breeding of closely related individuals, often leading to an increase in genetic disorders and a decrease in biodiversity.