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Question #47692
The Question
A 4-year-old girl diagnosed with Adenosine Deaminase (ADA) deficiency is undergoing somatic gene therapy, where functional ADA cDNA is introduced into her cultured lymphocytes and returned to her body. A resident doctor suggests administering Cyclosporin A to prevent the immune rejection of these genetically modified cells. Why is this pharmacological intervention scientifically flawed and potentially lethal?
Options
- A.
Cyclosporin A, derived from Monascus purpureus, acts as an immunostimulant that would trigger a hyperactive anaphylactic response against the retroviral vectors.
- B.
Cyclosporin A, a bioactive molecule from Trichoderma polysporum, suppresses T-cell activation, which is clinically redundant and exacerbates the pre-existing severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID).
- C.
The genetically modified lymphocytes are immortalized by the retroviral vector, providing a permanent cure that renders the immunosuppressive action of Cyclosporin A unnecessary.
- D.
Cyclosporin A induces targeted germline mutations which would interfere with the somatic gene therapy, converting a temporary cellular cure into a permanent inheritable defect.
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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
Nutrient_Cycling_Reservoirs|Statin|Cellular_Lipid_Homeostasis
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often memorize 'Cyclosporin A = prevents transplant rejection' and might incorrectly apply it to the 'transplantation' of genetically modified lymphocytes.
This tests the ability to recognize that the lymphocytes are autologous (self) and that the patient already suffers from profound immunosuppression (SCID), making an immunosuppressive drug lethal.
It also integrates facts from 'Microbes in Human Welfare' and 'Biotechnology and its Applications'.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Microbes in Human Welfare - Class 12 |
| Concept | Statin Mechanism of Action |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |