Adaptive Immune System Quizlet Related

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Viral antigenic shift

  • A. Is caused by multiple random mutations
  • B. Is caused by a single mutation
  • C. It affects only internal viral proteins not recognized by preexisting antibodies
  • D. It refers to the appearance of new HA variants not recognized by preexisting antibodies
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Step 1: Viral antigenic shift involves major changes in the surface proteins of the virus, particularly the hemagglutinin (HA) protein.
Step 2: These changes result in the emergence of new variants that are not recognized by preexisting antibodies.
Step 3: This process is distinct from antigenic drift, which involves minor changes due to random mutations.
Step 4: Choice D correctly states that viral antigenic shift refers to the appearance of new HA variants not recognized by preexisting antibodies.
Summary: Choice A is incorrect because viral antigenic shift is not caused by multiple random mutations. Choice B is incorrect as antigenic shift involves major changes, not a single mutation. Choice C is incorrect as it affects surface proteins like HA, not just internal proteins.