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Each individual contains millions of different kinds of B cells that produce different kinds of antibodies - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 22 - 2006 - Paper 1
Question 22
Each individual contains millions of different kinds of B cells that produce different kinds of antibodies. This diversity of B cells is due to the A. rearrangement ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Each individual contains millions of different kinds of B cells that produce different kinds of antibodies - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 22 - 2006 - Paper 1
Step 1
A. rearrangement of gene segments.
Answer
The diversity of B cells primarily arises from the rearrangement of gene segments during the development of B cells in the bone marrow. This process allows for the generation of a vast array of antibodies, each specific to different antigens. The recombination of immunoglobulin gene segments (specifically the variable (V), diversity (D), and joining (J) segments) creates a unique antibody for each B cell, enabling the immune system to target a wide variety of pathogens.
Step 2
B. splicing of protein molecules.
Answer
Splicing of protein molecules relates to the post-transcriptional modification of RNA and does not directly contribute to the diversity of B cells. While splicing can affect protein expression and maturation, it is not the primary mechanism behind the generation of diverse antibodies in B cells.
Step 3
C. action of cytotoxic T cells.
Answer
Cytotoxic T cells are involved in the killing of infected or cancerous cells; they play a vital role in cell-mediated immunity but do not influence the diversity of B cells. Their main function is separate and focuses on direct cell-to-cell interaction.
Step 4