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Question #46392
The Question
Statins, produced by the yeast Monascus purpureus, are widely prescribed as blood-cholesterol lowering agents. Recent clinical studies highlight their 'pleiotropic effects', which include stabilizing the vascular endothelium and reducing local inflammation. How does this specific secondary effect indirectly prevent intravascular thrombosis (clotting)?
Options
- A.
By competitively inhibiting the enzyme thrombokinase, thereby halting the conversion of prothrombin to thrombin.
- B.
By preventing the exposure of subendothelial collagen, thereby removing the primary trigger for the activation of Factor XII and blood platelets.
- C.
By acting as a direct 'clot buster' that activates plasminogen to plasmin, mimicking the action of streptokinase.
- D.
By chelating calcium ions (Ca++) in the blood plasma, which are essential cofactors for both the intrinsic and extrinsic clotting cascades.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Regulatory_Failure
Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.
Concepts Behind This Question
Thrombin|HMG-CoA Reductase|Endothelial Integrity
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot & Functional Overlap Trap: Students often memorize 'Statins = competitive inhibitor' and 'Streptokinase = clot buster'.
The trap lies in misapplying the 'competitive inhibition' mechanism to a clotting enzyme (Option A) or confusing the preventative anti-thrombotic effect of statins with the active clot-dissolving effect of streptokinase (Option C).
The question tests the ability to link endothelial anatomy with the biochemical triggers of the coagulation cascade.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Body Fluids and Circulation - Class 11 |
| Concept | Clotting Cascade Factors |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |