Multiple Choice
Which of the following is one of the main weaknesses of the proposed classification scheme in which all eukaryotes are divided into four supergroups?
27. Protists
Eukaryotic Supergroups: Exploring Protist Diversity
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How do trypanosomes withstand the attack of a host's immune system?
A
They reproduce so fast that they can compensate for the death rate caused by the immune system.
B
They live only in the cerebrospinal fluid, where the immune system can't reach them.
C
They specifically poison helper T cells.
D
All of the listed responses are correct.
E
The molecular composition of their surface changes continually.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that trypanosomes are parasitic protozoans responsible for diseases such as African sleeping sickness.
Recognize that the immune system typically identifies and attacks foreign invaders by recognizing specific molecular markers on their surfaces.
Learn that trypanosomes have a unique ability to evade the immune system by frequently changing the molecular composition of their surface proteins.
This process is known as antigenic variation, which allows trypanosomes to present new surface markers that the immune system has not yet recognized, thus avoiding detection.
By continually altering their surface proteins, trypanosomes can persist in the host and withstand immune attacks, making it difficult for the immune system to eliminate them.
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