Shigella sonnei is differentiated from other Shigella species by which biochemical test?

Prepare for the Clinical Laboratory Science Bacteriology Test. Engage with multiple choice questions and flashcards with helpful hints and explanations. Ace your exam confidently!

Multiple Choice

Shigella sonnei is differentiated from other Shigella species by which biochemical test?

Explanation:
Lactose utilization detected by the ONPG assay hinges on beta-galactosidase activity. Shigella sonnei uniquely shows beta-galactosidase activity among Shigella species, allowing lactose metabolism, whereas the other Shigella species typically do not. When the ONPG substrate is cleaved by beta-galactosidase, it turns yellow, indicating a positive result. This makes ONPG positivity the best way to distinguish Shigella sonnei from its relatives. Other options aren’t reliable differentiators for this species, since their biochemical traits (like oxidase status, motility, or phenylalanine deaminase) are not unique to S. sonnei.

Lactose utilization detected by the ONPG assay hinges on beta-galactosidase activity. Shigella sonnei uniquely shows beta-galactosidase activity among Shigella species, allowing lactose metabolism, whereas the other Shigella species typically do not. When the ONPG substrate is cleaved by beta-galactosidase, it turns yellow, indicating a positive result. This makes ONPG positivity the best way to distinguish Shigella sonnei from its relatives. Other options aren’t reliable differentiators for this species, since their biochemical traits (like oxidase status, motility, or phenylalanine deaminase) are not unique to S. sonnei.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy