The specific binding of HIV to the CD4 surface molecules of the target cells is brought about by:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Gp120. Gp120 is a glycoprotein on the surface of the HIV virus that specifically binds to the CD4 receptor on target cells. This binding is essential for the virus to enter the host cell and initiate the infection process. Gp41 is another glycoprotein on the virus that helps with membrane fusion, not binding to CD4. Gp32 and Gp55 are not involved in the specific binding of HIV to CD4 molecules. So, A is correct as it directly plays a key role in the initial attachment of HIV to target cells.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Coxiella burnetii. Q-fever is caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii. It is not caused by viruses like Bunyaviridae or Filoviridae. Rickettsia conorii causes Mediterranean spotted fever, not Q-fever. Coxiella burnetii is the only bacterium among the choices known to be the etiological agent of Q-fever.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because bacteria synthesize enzymes with various nature and action. This is true because bacteria can produce a wide range of enzymes to carry out different functions such as metabolism, cell wall synthesis, and nutrient acquisition. Option A is incorrect because bacteria do not synthesize identical enzyme sets due to their diverse functions. Option C is incorrect as bacteria and viruses have distinct enzyme profiles. Option D is incorrect as viruses typically have a narrower range of enzymes compared to bacteria. Therefore, the variability in enzyme types and actions produced by bacteria supports the correctness of option B.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Hyaluronidase synthesis. Hyaluronidase is an enzyme produced by some pathogens to break down hyaluronic acid in the extracellular matrix, aiding their spread. This action does not directly counteract the immune system's mechanisms. Antigenic heterogeneity and mimicry can evade immune recognition. IgA proteases degrade IgA antibodies, impairing mucosal immunity. Therefore, D is the only choice not directly involved in counteracting the immune system.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Clostridium botulinum. This bacterium produces botulinum toxin, which blocks neuromuscular transmission by inhibiting the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction. This leads to muscle weakness and paralysis. Shigella dysenteriae (A) causes dysentery but does not affect neuromuscular transmission. Clostridium tetani (B) produces tetanus toxin, which affects inhibitory neurons in the spinal cord, leading to muscle spasm. Corynebacterium diphtheriae (C) produces diphtheria toxin, which affects protein synthesis in cells, not neuromuscular transmission.