Interferon-alpha may be used in the management of each one of the following, except:
Correct Answer E:
Interferon:
Interferons (IFN) are cytokines released by the body in response to viral infections and neoplasia. They are classified according to cellular origin and the type of receptor they bind to. IFN-alpha and IFN-beta bind to type 1 receptors whilst IFN-gamma binds only to type 2 receptors.
IFN-alpha:
IFN-beta:
IFN-gamma:
Northern blotting is used to:
Correct Answer C:
Molecular biology techniques:
The following table shows a very basic summary of molecular biology techniques:
Where is Secretin secreted from?
Gastrointestinal hormones:
Below is a brief summary of the major hormones involved in food digestion:
Each one of the following is a feature of pseudohypoparathyroidism, except:
Pseudohypoparathyroidism: Pseudohypoparathyroidism is caused by target cell insensitivity to parathyroid hormone (PTH) due to a mutation in a G-protein. In type I pseudohypoparathyroidism there is a complete receptor defect whereas in type II the cell receptor is intact.
Pseudohypoparathyroidism is typically inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion*
Bloods:
Features:
Investigation:
Infusion of PTH followed by measurement of urinary phosphate and cAMP measurement - this can help differentiate between type I (neither phosphate or cAMP levels rise) and II (cAMP rises but phosphate levels do not change).
*It was previously thought to be an X-linked dominant condition.
A 19-year-old man with a history of learning disabilities and ectopia lentis is diagnosed as having homocystinuria.
Supplementation of which one of the following may help improve his condition?
Homocystinuria - give vitamin B6 (pyridoxine).
Homocystinuria:
Homocystinuria is a rare autosomal recessive disease caused by deficiency of cystathionine beta synthase. This results in an accumulation of homocysteine which is then oxidized to homocystine.
Diagnosis:
Treatment: