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Question #47394
The Question
A transgenic mouse model is developed with a knocked-out gene for a specific endogenous protease inhibitor, mimicking a human chronic respiratory disorder. Over time, the mice exhibit severe alveolar wall degradation and a permanently expanded thoracic cavity (barrel chest), compromising the mechanical 'bellows' effect of the rib cage. Which of the following statements regarding this condition and its physiological implications is INCORRECT?
Options
- A.
The therapeutic biological product used to counter this specific alveolar degradation in humans is α-1-antitrypsin, which can be harvested from transgenic animals.
- B.
The permanent expansion of the thoracic cavity occurs because the lungs fail to passively deflate during expiration due to the destruction of elastin fibers.
- C.
The mechanical failure of the rib cage's bellows effect is driven by a drastic reduction in pulmonary compliance and an enhanced elastic recoil of the lung tissue.
- D.
In a healthy state, the contraction of external intercostal muscles lifts up the ribs and sternum, causing an increase in the volume of the thoracic chamber in the dorso-ventral axis.
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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
Thoracic_Cage|Pulmonary_Physiology|Human_Alpha-1-antitrypsin|Transgenic_Models
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students frequently confuse 'pulmonary compliance' (the ability of lungs to stretch and expand) with 'elastic recoil' (the ability of lungs to snap back to their original size).
Furthermore, this question tests the ability to synthesize concepts across two different NCERT units: Biotechnology (α-1-antitrypsin application) and Human Physiology (Breathing mechanics and the dorso-ventral axis expansion by external intercostal muscles).
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Locomotion and Movement - Class 11 |
| Concept | Rib Cage Architecture |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |