Molecular Koch's postulates

Molecular Koch's postulates are guidelines scientists use to prove that specific genes in a microorganism cause disease. They involve identifying a suspect gene, showing it's present in disease-causing strains but not in harmless ones, and demonstrating that adding this gene to a harmless organism makes it pathogenic. Conversely, removing or disabling the gene from the disease-causing organism should reduce or eliminate its ability to cause illness. These steps help confirm the direct role of specific genes in making microorganisms harmful, advancing our understanding of disease mechanisms and potential treatments.