Photo AI
Streptococcus pyogenes is a pathogenic bacterium that can cause a range of diseases including a sore throat - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 3 - 2023 - Paper 1
Question 3
Streptococcus pyogenes is a pathogenic bacterium that can cause a range of diseases including a sore throat. People infected by S. pyogenes produce specific antibodi... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Streptococcus pyogenes is a pathogenic bacterium that can cause a range of diseases including a sore throat - 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 against S. pyogenes bind to the bacteria, leading to several immune responses. These include the agglutination of bacteria, where antibodies clump the pathogens together, making them easier for phagocytes to engulf and destroy. Antibodies can also neutralize bacterial toxins, preventing them from causing harm to host cells. Furthermore, they can activate the complement system, which leads to the lysis of bacterial cells. Collectively, these actions significantly reduce the number of pathogens and aid in the recovery of the individual infected with S. pyogenes.
Step 2
c. Explain which participant is the most likely to have received the placebo injection.
Answer
Participant 2 is the most likely to have received the placebo injection because they demonstrated the lowest blood memory cell concentration at Stage 3. This suggests that their immune response was less activated compared to other participants who showed higher memory cell concentrations, indicating a likely absence of an effective immune response to S. pyogenes infection as would occur with vaccination.
Step 3
d. Outline two ongoing challenges for treatment strategies as a result of this resistance.
Answer
One challenge is the need for new research or development into novel drugs or vaccines to combat resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, as traditional treatments may no longer be effective. Another challenge involves ensuring that patients complete their full course of treatment, as non-compliance can contribute to the development of further resistance, making the disease harder to treat.