One method of assessing the progress of multiple sclerosis (MS) in patients detects fragments of the protein NfL - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 18 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 18
One method of assessing the progress of multiple sclerosis (MS) in patients detects fragments of the protein NfL. These protein fragments are released into spinal fl... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:One method of assessing the progress of multiple sclerosis (MS) in patients detects fragments of the protein NfL - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 18 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
A. an increased number of T helper lymphocytes.
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Answer
In patients with progressive MS, increased levels of T helper lymphocytes are typically observed due to an immune response toward the damaged nerve tissues.
Step 2
B. lower levels of the NfL protein in the blood.
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Answer
This statement is incorrect. In cases of nerve damage associated with progressive MS, one would expect higher levels of NfL protein in the blood since it is released upon nerve injury.
Step 3
C. thicker myelin sheaths around nerves.
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This is also incorrect. In progressive MS, you typically observe demyelination rather than thicker myelin sheaths, as the disease leads to damage of the myelin surrounding nerves.
Step 4
D. lower levels of antibodies.
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This statement is misleading. Patients may not necessarily have lower levels of antibodies; rather, the immune response can be altered, and specific antibodies related to MS may vary.
