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Question #46544
The Question
Neoplastic cells often evade the cell-mediated immune response despite the presence of functional cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CD8+ T-cells) in the body. Based on the principles of immune surveillance and cancer biology, which of the following is the most likely mechanism employed by these tumor cells to escape destruction?
Options
- A.
Downregulation of MHC-I molecules on their surface, preventing the presentation of altered-self antigens.
- B.
Secretion of α-interferon into the microenvironment to suppress T-cell activation and induce apoptosis.
- C.
Upregulation of MHC-II receptors to directly destroy the T-cell receptors of approaching lymphocytes.
- D.
Transformation of proto-oncogenes into cellular oncogenes, which directly neutralizes circulating antibodies.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Comparative_Analysis
Sharpen your ability to evaluate multiple scenarios and distinguish between competing potential answers.
Concepts Behind This Question
Oncogenes vs Proto-oncogenes|Primary vs Secondary Immune Response|Autoimmunity Principles
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often memorize that 'T-cells kill cancer cells' but fail to connect the molecular requirement for this interaction: MHC-I antigen presentation.
The trap in Option B exploits a common misconception regarding α-interferon; students remember it is associated with cancer but forget it is a therapeutic immune-activator, not an immune-evasion molecule secreted by the tumor.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Human Health and Disease - Class 12 |
| Concept | Oncogenes vs Proto-oncogenes |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |