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Question #45298
The Question
A novel oncogenic virus manipulates the host's cell cycle, arresting infected cells in a prolonged pseudo-metaphase state to optimize its own genome integration. Cytological examination reveals that all chromosomes are perfectly aligned at the equatorial plate with intact bipolar spindle attachments. To maintain this arrested state, which of the following normal host cellular events is most likely being directly inhibited by the viral proteins?
Options
- A.
Activation of the Anaphase Promoting Complex (APC)
- B.
Activation of the Spindle Assembly Checkpoint (SAC)
- C.
Polymerization of tubulin to form the mitotic spindle
- D.
Phosphorylation of nuclear lamins by cyclin-dependent kinases
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Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Evolutionary_Exception
Tackle problems where standard rules evolve or change based on specific environmental constraints.
Concepts Behind This Question
APC|HIV_Replication_Cycle|Host_Cell_Machinery
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Distinguishing between the Spindle Assembly Checkpoint (SAC) and the Anaphase Promoting Complex (APC).
Students often assume an arrest at metaphase implies a spindle defect or an active SAC.
However, the prompt explicitly states the spindle is intact and chromosomes are aligned, meaning the SAC is satisfied.
The trap is failing to recognize that the virus must block the subsequent molecular trigger (APC) to prevent the cell from progressing into anaphase.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Cell Cycle and Cell Division - Class 11 |
| Concept | Anaphase Promotion Complex (APC) |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |