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In Europe, viruses have infected a large number of frogs of different species - AQA - A-Level Biology - Question 3 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 3
In Europe, viruses have infected a large number of frogs of different species. The viruses are closely related and all belong to the Ranavirus group. Previously, th... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In Europe, viruses have infected a large number of frogs of different species - AQA - A-Level Biology - Question 3 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Suggest and explain how the viruses became able to infect other species of frog.
Answer
The viruses likely underwent a mutation in their viral DNA or RNA. This mutation could have altered the structure of the viral attachment protein, allowing it to bind to receptors on other frog species. Such changes facilitate the virus's ability to infect a broader range of hosts.
Step 2
Step 3
Explain how determining the genome of the viruses could allow scientists to develop a vaccine.
Answer
By determining the genome, scientists can identify proteins that are potential antigens. They can then create a vaccine that raises an immune response against these antigens. This could be done by using B cells that produce specific antibodies against the viral proteins, thereby enhancing immunity in the frog population.