Question

Which one of the following statements is CORRECT for Mycoplasma?

• A. Their cells are of definite shape.
• B. They are resistant to lysis by osmotic shock.
• C. Their growth is not inhibited by penicillin.
• D. They are nonpathogenic to humans.

Hint:

Mycoplasma are unique among bacteria because they lack a cell wall, making them resistant to antibiotics like penicillin.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding Mycoplasma.
Mycoplasma are bacteria that lack a cell wall and are known for their resistance to antibiotics like penicillin, which target cell wall synthesis.

Step 2: Analyzing the options.
(A) Their cells are of definite shape: Incorrect — Mycoplasma cells are pleomorphic, meaning they lack a fixed shape.
(B) They are resistant to lysis by osmotic shock: Incorrect — Due to the lack of a cell wall, they are susceptible to osmotic shock.
(C) Their growth is not inhibited by penicillin: Correct — As Mycoplasma lack a cell wall, penicillin, which inhibits cell wall synthesis, does not affect their growth.
(D) They are nonpathogenic to humans: Incorrect — Some species of Mycoplasma are pathogenic and can cause diseases like pneumonia.

Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (C) Their growth is not inhibited by penicillin, as Mycoplasma lack a cell wall.