The adaptive immune system uses multiple strategies to generate diversity in our ability to mount responses to a wide array of infectious microorganisms. These strategies include the generation of diverse repertoires of B-cell and T-cell antigen receptors, as well as polymorphism of MHC genes. The polymorphism of MHC genes differs from the diversity of lymphocyte antigen receptors in that:
A) It involves DNA rearrangements at multiple gene segments in the MHC locus.
B) It requires different enzymes than the RAG1/RAG2 recombinase required for antigen receptor rearrangements.
C) It results in a diverse repertoire of clonally distributed receptors on dendritic cells, rather than on lymphocytes.
D) It creates diversity between individuals in the population rather than within a single individual.
E) It does not contribute to the transplant rejection responses that occur after organ transplantation between unrelated individuals.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Polymorphism of MHC genes creates diversity between individuals in the population rather than within a single individual. This is because MHC genes are inherited in a codominant manner, meaning an individual can inherit different MHC alleles from each parent, resulting in a diverse pool of MHC alleles within a population. This diversity is important for the ability of the immune system to recognize and respond to a wide range of pathogens.

The Adaptive Immune System Uses Multiple Strategies to Generate Diversity