Contrary to the previous understanding regarding their role in nature, antibiotics do not function solely as microbe-killers. Thus, the generic name “antibiotics” should be replaced with the term “communication molecules”.<br/><br/>Which of the following statements, if true, would most strengthen the argument?
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AAntibiotics both activate and repress many promoters, which are responsible for sending out signals guiding the growth of microbe communities.
BAntibiotics are naturally found in soil, where they are unlikely to come into contact with the pathogens they are known to destroy.
CWheat plants harbor certain molecules in their roots, which destroy fungi harmful to the plants.
DAntibiotics may predate proteins in the evolutionary chain and could have assisted in the development of ribosomes, an important component to cellular life.
EThe name “antibiotics” was coined in the 1950s by the researcher who discovered the first effective treatment for tuberculosis: streptomycin.
✓ Correct answer: A. Antibiotics both activate and repress many promoters, which are responsible for sending out signals guiding the growth of microbe communities.You are looking for the statement that most strengthens the argument that antibiotics should be renamed because their role in nature is not what it was once thought to be. Specifically, you want to find an answer that provides evidence that antibiotics act in a way that stimulates communication of some sort.
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