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Question #45370
The Question
Severe systemic inflammation can trigger a 'cytokine storm' that disrupts the structural integrity of the seminiferous tubules, leading to autoimmune orchitis and infertility. Which of the following statements regarding the Blood-Testis Barrier (BTB) and this pathological process is INCORRECT?
Options
- A.
A. The disruption allows systemic leukocytes to infiltrate the adluminal compartment of the seminiferous tubules.
- B.
B. The BTB normally prevents the immune system from recognizing novel surface antigens present on haploid spermatids.
- C.
C. Tight junctions between Sertoli cells and spermatogonia form the primary structural basis of the Blood-Testis Barrier.
- D.
D. Breakdown of the barrier leads to the production of anti-sperm antibodies because spermatozoa are treated as 'non-self' antigens.
Check Your Answer
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
Sertoli Cells|Tight Junctions|Blood-Testis Barrier|Immunocompetent cells
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often misunderstand the exact cellular architecture of the BTB.
Because NCERT states that Sertoli cells 'nourish and protect' germ cells, students falsely assume the tight junctions form between the Sertoli cell and the germ cell itself.
In reality, the barrier is a continuous wall formed by tight junctions between neighboring Sertoli cells, dividing the epithelium into a basal compartment (containing diploid spermatogonia, exposed to blood) and an adluminal compartment (containing haploid cells, immunologically sequestered).
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Human Reproduction - Class 12 |
| Concept | Sertoli Cell Functions |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |