The retrovirus HIV frequently undergoes mutations, making it difficult for scientists to develop a single effective vaccine. When flu vaccines are administered, patients are told that they are only protected from one strain of the flu and are still as susceptible to other strains as unvaccinated people. Explain why.

What will be an ideal response?


The specificity of vaccines to a particular antigen is critical in order to mount an appropriate immune response. In
order to function effectively, both plasma cells and activated T cells must recognize a particular pathogen. Since
HIV frequently mutates, several forms of the virus may be present and therefore a single drug may target one form
but not another. The flu vaccine is developed early in the flu season after the virus affecting the first victims is
characterized. If a person is infected with a different strain or with a mutated vaccine -related strain, the vaccine is
ineffective.

Anatomy & Physiology

You might also like to view...

Simple goiter is most prevalent where the soil lacks

A. vitamins. B. potassium. C. iodine. D. organic matter.

Anatomy & Physiology

An important trace mineral that acts as an antioxidant is

A) iron. B) cobalt. C) selenium. D) chromium. E) magnesium.

Anatomy & Physiology

A cell is

A. a structure composed of several tissue types. B. a group of organs with a common set of functions. C. a small structure within a molecule. D. a group of atoms with similar structure and function. E. the basic structural unit of living organisms.

Anatomy & Physiology

The pigments that contribute to skin color are melanin, carotene, and hemoglobin

Indicate whether the statement is true or false

Anatomy & Physiology