Biological agents
Biological agents
Biological agents (pronunciation: /baɪəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ˈeɪdʒənts/) are microorganisms, or toxins derived from living organisms, that can cause diseases in humans, animals, or plants. They can be used for beneficial purposes, such as in medicine and research, or they can be used as weapons in biological warfare.
Etymology
The term "biological agent" comes from the Greek word "bios" meaning "life" and the Latin word "agens" meaning "doing". It refers to any living organism or product of a living organism that can affect another living organism.
Types of Biological Agents
Biological agents can be classified into three main categories:
- Bacteria: These are single-celled organisms that can cause diseases such as tuberculosis, anthrax, and cholera.
- Viruses: These are smaller than bacteria and can cause diseases such as influenza, HIV/AIDS, and Ebola.
- Toxins: These are poisonous substances produced by living organisms. They can cause diseases such as botulism, tetanus, and diphtheria.
Use of Biological Agents
Biological agents can be used in a variety of ways:
- Medicine: Biological agents are used in the treatment of diseases. For example, antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, and vaccines are used to prevent viral infections.
- Research: Biological agents are used in laboratories to study how diseases spread and how they can be prevented or treated.
- Biological warfare: Biological agents can be used as weapons to cause disease or death. This is considered a form of terrorism and is illegal under international law.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Biological agents
- Wikipedia's article - Biological agents
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