How does the trypanosome's ability to switch its Variant Surface Glycoprotein (VSG) relate to the 'waves of parasitemia' observed in chronic infections?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking how the trypanosome's ability to change its Variant Surface Glycoprotein (VSG) is connected to the observed phenomenon of 'waves of parasitemia' during chronic infections. Specifically, it presents multiple-choice answers that explore different mechanisms of this relationship.
Answer
Trypanosomes switch their VSGs leading to 'waves of parasitemia', enabling chronic infections by evading the immune system.
Trypanosomes switch their Variant Surface Glycoproteins (VSGs) to evade the host's immune system. This switching allows them to survive immune attacks and results in 'waves of parasitemia'. With each switch, a new wave of parasites emerges, leading to persistent infection despite the host's immune response.
Answer for screen readers
Trypanosomes switch their Variant Surface Glycoproteins (VSGs) to evade the host's immune system. This switching allows them to survive immune attacks and results in 'waves of parasitemia'. With each switch, a new wave of parasites emerges, leading to persistent infection despite the host's immune response.
More Information
Trypanosomes are protozoan parasites known for causing diseases like sleeping sickness. Their ability to vary their VSG coat is a highly effective survival strategy, as it enables them to constantly 'trick' the host's immune system, preventing it from clearing the infection.
Tips
A common mistake is to assume VSG switching is random, but it is a strategic process coordinated by the trypanosome to continue escaping immune surveillance.
Sources
- Escaping the immune system by DNA repair and recombination in... - pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Variant Surface Glycoprotein - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics - sciencedirect.com
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