Question

What is the basis for the oxidase test used in diagnostic microbiology?

A) It tests for the presence of oxygen in bacterial cultures.
B) It detects the presence of cytochrome c in bacterial electron transport chains.
C) It measures the pH of bacterial cultures.
D) It assesses bacterial resistance to antibiotics.

Answer 1

The oxidase test in diagnostic microbiology is based on the detection of cytochrome c in bacterial electron transport chains.

Step-by-step explanation:

The basis for the oxidase test used in diagnostic microbiology is the detection of the presence of cytochrome c in bacterial electron transport chains. The oxidase test identifies bacteria that produce cytochrome oxidase or indophenol oxidases, which are redox enzymes in the electron transport system that shuttle electrons to oxygen.