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Hepatitis B is a life-threatening liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) - AQA - A-Level Biology - Question 7 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 7
Hepatitis B is a life-threatening liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Figure 7 shows the structure of HBV. HBV infects a liver cell. The liver c... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Hepatitis B is a life-threatening liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) - AQA - A-Level Biology - Question 7 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Use Figure 7 to calculate how many times larger in diameter this cell is than HBV.
Answer
To determine how many times larger the liver cell is than HBV, we first need to measure the diameter of HBV from Figure 7. Assuming the diameter of the lipid layer of HBV is approximately 0.04μm, the calculations are as follows:
- Diameter of the liver cell = 25μm
- Diameter of HBV ≈ 0.04μm
- To find the ratio:
Thus, the liver cell is 625 times larger in diameter than HBV.
Step 2
Suggest why this increases uptake of RNAi molecules into cells.
Answer
The incorporation of RNAi molecules with lipids facilitates their entry into cells because the cell membrane consists mainly of a phospholipid bilayer. Lipid molecules can merge with the membrane, allowing the RNAi to be delivered more effectively into the cellular interior. This lipid-mediated transport enhances the permeability of the cell membrane to these otherwise difficult-to-transport molecules.
Step 3
Evaluate the use of the two types of RNAi in treating hepatitis B in humans.
Answer
In assessing the effectiveness of RNAi types in treating hepatitis B, both forms exhibit efficacy beyond the control, demonstrating significant potential in therapeutic settings.
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Both types are effective: Preliminary data suggests both RNAi types result in reduced viral load, verified through evidence showing both approaches lower HBV levels considerably.
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Significance of Results: Statistical analysis indicates that differences in treatment outcomes are unlikely due to chance, and both types maintain a notable impact on reducing viral replication.
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Considerations for Treatment: Evaluation must account for possible side effects and patient-specific variables, such as overall health status, hepatic function, and previous treatments. It appears that shRNA is more efficient compared to traditional RNAi, reflecting a higher potency in suppressing the viral load while possibly reducing adverse effects.
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Replication and Safety: These therapies do not seem to exhibit replication and are not zero-related in effectiveness. However, further research is necessary to confirm findings in broader populations.
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Conclusion: Overall, RNAi shows promise as a new avenue for treating hepatitis B, warranting additional investigation to establish optimal protocols and safety parameters.