About Pathogen

Definition: It is an organism that can be a bacterium, virus, fungus, or parasite and causes disease in its host. It can be transmitted from one organism to another, causing to infection and illness.

Characteristics: Pathogens are often microscopic and can have various shapes and structures. They have specific mechanisms to invade and colonize their host, disrupt normal cellular functions, and evade the host’s immune system.

Functions: A pathogen’s principal function is to survive and reproduce within its host, frequently at the price of the host’s health. Pathogens can assure their own existence by transmitting to new hosts and continue their life cycle by producing diseases.

Difference Between Pathogen and Parasite: Pathogens and parasites are two terms that describe microorganisms that can be harmful to the health of any living being. Here is the major difference between a pathogen and a parasite is that the term pathogen explains the effect of a microorganism upon another living being which is often harmful, whereas it is the term parasite describes the mode of living of a microorganism which may or may not be harmful.