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Multiple Choice
Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is an endotoxin found on the surface of gram-negative bacteria. LPS can cause the body to enter septic shock and result in multi-system organ failure. Because of its severe effects, it is important that the immune cells react quickly to LPS. LPS is an antigen that can directly trigger antibody secretion once it comes in contact with a B cell. LPS is what kind of antigen?
A
T-independent antigen.
B
Direct antigen.
C
T-dependent antigen.
D
B-independent antigen.
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Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of antigens: Antigens are substances that can induce an immune response, and they are recognized by immune cells such as B cells and T cells.
Differentiate between T-dependent and T-independent antigens: T-dependent antigens require the assistance of T-helper cells to stimulate B cells to produce antibodies, while T-independent antigens can directly stimulate B cells without T-helper cell involvement.
Analyze the problem statement: The problem states that LPS can directly trigger antibody secretion upon contact with a B cell, indicating that it does not require T-helper cells for this process.
Identify the type of antigen: Based on the ability of LPS to directly stimulate B cells, it is classified as a T-independent antigen.
Conclude with the correct classification: Given the characteristics of LPS as described, it is a T-independent antigen, which aligns with the provided options.