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How many opportunities are there to rearrange to a productive light chain?

a) One
b) Two
c) Three
d) Four

User Ed Willink
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The question pertains to V(D)J recombination in immunology, which is the process used by B cells to generate a diverse array of antigen receptors. In the case of light chains, multiple V and J segments can be combined, presenting numerous opportunities for productive rearrangement.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question: How many opportunities are there to rearrange to a productive light chain? refers to the process of V(D)J recombination during the formation of B-cell and T-cell receptors in the immune system. Specifically, this question is asking about the rearrangement of the immunoglobulin light chain in B cells. Each light chain locus has multiple variable (V), joining (J), and in some species, diversity (D) gene segments. However, the light chain in humans does not undergo D segment rearrangement, only V and J segments are rearranged. As both the kappa and lambda light chains can be potentially used, and each of these chains has multiple V and J gene segments that can be randomly combined, there are many potential combinations for a productive light chain rearrangement.

User Thomas Desdoits
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