Examples of disease-modifying drugs used to treat autoimmune disease include

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why choice C (Anti-TNF-α) is correct: 1. Anti-TNF-α drugs target specific molecules involved in autoimmune responses. 2. By inhibiting TNF-α, these drugs reduce inflammation and slow disease progression. 3. This makes them disease-modifying, as they alter the course of the autoimmune disease. Summary of why other choices are incorrect: A: Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory but not disease-modifying in autoimmune diseases. B: Aspirin is primarily used for pain relief and reducing inflammation, not modifying the disease. D: C-cell depleting agents are not commonly used for autoimmune diseases and do not target TNF-α.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: TNF-alpha and TNF-beta. Tumor necrosis factors (TNF) are a specific category of cytokines known for their role in promoting inflammation and inducing cell death in tumor cells. TNF-alpha and TNF-beta are two key members of this cytokine category. Interleukins (choice A) are a different group of cytokines involved in immune responses. Interferons (choice B) are cytokines that help regulate the immune system's response to viral infections. TGF-beta (choice D) is a cytokine involved in regulating cell growth and differentiation, but not specifically associated with tumor necrosis factors.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because Toll-like receptors (TLRs) recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) on pathogens, initiating the immune response. This recognition triggers the production of cytokines and chemokines, leading to inflammation and activation of immune cells. Choice A is incorrect because TLRs do not identify self-antigens but rather foreign antigens. Choice B is incorrect as TLRs do not directly mediate phagocytosis but rather initiate signaling pathways that lead to phagocytosis by immune cells. Choice D is incorrect because TLRs do not suppress cytokine secretion; rather, they stimulate cytokine production.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of lymph nodes is to filter lymph and facilitate immune responses. Lymph nodes contain immune cells that help recognize and fight off infections. They filter lymph by trapping and removing pathogens and foreign particles. This process helps in activating the immune response to protect the body. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because lymph nodes do not produce red blood cells, synthesize antibodies, or generate cytokines. These functions are carried out by other organs and cells in the body.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Haematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow. These cells are responsible for generating all immune cells, including lymphocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells. They continuously replenish the immune system, allowing for proper immune function. Secondary lymphoid tissues (choice A) play a role in immune responses but are not the primary underpinning. Mucosal immune system activity (choice C) is important for defense at mucosal surfaces but is not the foundation of immune function. Rapid cytokine suppression (choice D) is a regulatory mechanism, not the fundamental basis of immune system functions.