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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is associated with allelic exclusion of the heavy-chain locus in B cells?
A
Suppression of light-chain gene rearrangement
B
Rearrangement of immunoglobulin genes
C
Activation of T-cell receptors
D
Expression of multiple alleles simultaneously
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of allelic exclusion: Allelic exclusion is a process in B cells where only one allele of the immunoglobulin heavy-chain gene is expressed, ensuring that each B cell produces a single type of antibody.
Identify the role of heavy-chain locus rearrangement: In B cells, the rearrangement of the heavy-chain locus is crucial for the production of functional antibodies. This rearrangement is tightly regulated to ensure allelic exclusion.
Recognize the suppression of other gene rearrangements: Once a successful rearrangement of the heavy-chain locus occurs, the cell suppresses further rearrangement attempts, including those of the light-chain genes, to maintain allelic exclusion.
Consider the options provided: Evaluate each option in the context of allelic exclusion. The suppression of light-chain gene rearrangement is a consequence of successful heavy-chain rearrangement, not a direct association with allelic exclusion.
Conclude with the correct association: The rearrangement of immunoglobulin genes is directly associated with allelic exclusion, as it ensures that only one allele is expressed in each B cell, preventing the expression of multiple alleles simultaneously.