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a. Describe the functions of these specific antibodies during an S - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 3 - 2023 - Paper 1
Question 3
a. Describe the functions of these specific antibodies during an S. pyogenes infection and how this leads to recovery. In a follow-up study, the participants were ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:a. Describe the functions of these specific antibodies during an S - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 3 - 2023 - Paper 1
Step 1
a. Describe the functions of these specific antibodies during an S. pyogenes infection and how this leads to recovery.
Answer
Antibodies play a crucial role in the immune response against S. pyogenes. They primarily bind to antigens on the surface of the bacteria, leading to several key functions:
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Agglutination: Antibodies can clump together S. pyogenes cells, making it easier for immune cells to recognize and eliminate them.
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Neutralization: By binding to the pathogens, antibodies can neutralize harmful toxins produced by the bacteria, thus preventing damage to host tissues.
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Opsonization: This process enhances phagocytosis; antibodies coat the bacteria, allowing phagocytes to more effectively engulf and digest the pathogens.
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Activation of Complement Proteins: Antibodies can trigger the complement system, creating holes in the bacterial membranes, leading to cell lysis and death.
These actions collectively reduce the pathogen load in the body and aid in recovery by allowing the immune system to function more effectively against the infection.
Step 2
c. Explain which participant is the most likely to have received the placebo injection.
Answer
Participant 2 is most likely to have received the placebo injection. This is supported by the following observations:
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Lack of Antibodies: Participant 2 has shown the lowest antibody concentration (low) at stage 3 compared to other participants, indicating a poor immune response to S. pyogenes.
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Sore Throat Status: Participant 2 did not report a sore throat during the study, suggesting that they did not respond to the bacterial challenge effectively, which would align with expectations for a placebo recipient who did not receive the vaccine's immune boost.
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Memory Cells: Both blood memory and T cell concentrations were relatively low, further indicating a lack of immune activation that would be expected in a vaccinated individual.
Step 3
d. Outline two ongoing challenges for treatment strategies as a result of this resistance.
Answer
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Development of New Drugs: One major challenge is the continuous need for research or development into new drugs or vaccines that can effectively target resistant strains of bacteria. This is crucial as existing antibiotics may become ineffective due to evolving resistance mechanisms.
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Patient Compliance and Outcome Measures: The difficulty in managing patients who develop new resistances complicates treatment plans and may lead to increased morbidity. Finding effective strategies for patients who do not complete the full course of treatment can lead to additional complications in controlling resistant infections.