Question

Answer the following questions:
1. State what do you understand by “MALT”? Where is it located inside our body?
2. Explain cytokine barriers.
3. Name the diagnostic test for AIDS. On what principle does it work?
4. Bone marrow and thymus play an important role in human immune system. Explain how are they able to achieve this.

Hint:

Interferons and cytokines are key natural defense mechanisms against viral infections. Also, microbes provide a wide range of bioactive compounds used in medical and industrial applications.

Answer 1

Step 1 (A): (A) MALT (Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue) is a component of the immune system found in mucosal linings such as the respiratory tract, gut, and urogenital tract. It provides localized immunity at the mucosal surfaces. (B) Cytokine barriers refer to proteins like interferons secreted by virus-infected cells that protect non-infected cells from further viral infection. (C) The diagnostic test for AIDS is the ELISA test. It works on the principle of antigen-antibody interaction, detecting HIV antibodies in the blood. (D) Bone marrow produces lymphocytes while the thymus is where T-lymphocytes mature. Together, they generate a functional immune system capable of defending the body.