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Question #46746
The Question
Cyclosporin A, a bioactive molecule produced by Trichoderma polysporum, is widely used as an immunosuppressive agent in organ transplant patients. At the cellular level, how does this drug primarily silence the adaptive immune response and prevent the exocytosis of cytokines from effector T-cells?
Options
- A.
By inhibiting the calcium-dependent enzyme calcineurin, thereby preventing NFAT nuclear translocation and disrupting lysosomal exocytosis.
- B.
By directly blocking the Ca2+ channels on the T-cell membrane, preventing the calcium influx required for cytokine synthesis.
- C.
By inhibiting the V-ATPase pump on the lysosomal membrane, altering the pH homeostasis required for processing immunological signaling proteins.
- D.
By activating intracellular kinases that hyperphosphorylate transcription factors, leading to their rapid degradation and silencing cytokine genes.
Check Your Answer
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
Cyclosporin_A|T-cell_Activation|Lysosomal_Exocytosis
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students memorize that Cyclosporin A is an immunosuppressant (NCERT fact) but often lack the 'Plus-depth' understanding of its intracellular target.
The trap lies in confusing signal transduction interruption (calcineurin inhibition) with direct receptor blockade (Option B) or direct lysosomal pH alteration (Option C).
This tests the integration of immune system regulation with intracellular calcium signaling pathways.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Cell – The Unit of Life - Class 11 |
| Concept | Lysosomal pH Homeostasis |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |