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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements about interferon is incorrect?
A
It only works on enveloped viruses.
B
It decreases the spread of the virus.
C
It is a species-specific molecule.
D
It does not directly inactivate viruses.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of interferons: Interferons are proteins produced by host cells in response to viral infections. They play a crucial role in the immune response by interfering with viral replication and modulating the immune system.
Analyze the statement 'It only works on enveloped viruses': Interferons are not limited to working on enveloped viruses. They can act on a variety of viruses, regardless of whether they are enveloped or non-enveloped.
Consider the statement 'It decreases the spread of the virus': Interferons help to decrease the spread of viruses by inhibiting viral replication and activating immune cells that target infected cells.
Evaluate the statement 'It is a species-specific molecule': Interferons are indeed species-specific, meaning that human interferons work primarily in humans, and interferons from other species work in their respective species.
Examine the statement 'It does not directly inactivate viruses': Interferons do not directly inactivate viruses; instead, they trigger antiviral defenses in host cells, making it harder for viruses to replicate and spread.