Suppose that an infectious agent, such as a virus or bacterium, had surface antigens identical to those displayed on the
surface of human cells. Would the immune system be able to detect and destroy these agents? Why or why not? What will be an ideal response?
ANSWER: No. Specific molecular markers on cell surfaces also play a role in the immune response.
Each cell in the body carries recognition molecules that prevent the immune system from
attacking our organs and tissues. These markers are encoded by a set of genes on chromosome 6 called the major histocompatibility complex (MHC).
You might also like to view...
Electrons move between PSII and PSI via __________
A. cytochrome b6f B. water C. chlorophyll D. NADP+ E. NADPH
Which element is a density-dependent factor that controls the size of a population?
a. wind velocity b. light intensity
c. resource availability d. temperature e. wave action in an intertidal zone
Signals from motor neurons result in action
potentials in muscle fibers, which in turn causes the __________ to release stored calcium ions. Fill in the blank(s) with the appropriate word(s).
Although most hormones work at sites distant from where they are secreted, some work locally, such
as a. follicle stimulating hormone. b. prostaglandin. c. luteinizing hormone. d. thyroid stimulating hormone. e. adrenocorticotropic hormone