What two factors enable some intercellular chemical signals to diffuse across cell membranes and bind to intracellular receptors?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'They are small and soluble.' Small and soluble molecules can easily pass through cell membranes and bind to intracellular receptors. Being small allows them to pass through the membrane, while being soluble enables them to dissolve in the aqueous environment inside the cell. Choice B is incorrect because large molecules typically cannot pass through the cell membrane easily. Choices C and D are incorrect because insoluble molecules would not dissolve in the aqueous environment inside the cell, hindering their ability to bind to intracellular receptors.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Paracrine. Somatostatin acts in a paracrine manner by inhibiting the release of insulin from nearby cells within the pancreas. Paracrine signaling involves the secretion of signals that act on neighboring cells, as seen in this scenario where somatostatin affects nearby pancreatic cells without entering the bloodstream or affecting distant cells. Autocrine signaling involves cells responding to substances they themselves release, which is not the case here. Neuromodulators are chemicals that modulate the activity of neurons, not directly related to this scenario. Pheromones are chemicals released into the environment to communicate with individuals of the same species, not relevant to the signaling within the pancreas.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Endocrine glands release hormones directly into the blood, which is why they require a rich blood supply to ensure effective hormone distribution throughout the body. The extensive network of blood vessels allows hormones to be quickly transported to target tissues and organs, regulating various physiological functions. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because endocrine glands do not filter waste from the blood or the glands themselves. They release hormones into the bloodstream to regulate bodily functions, making a direct connection to the blood supply crucial for their function.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Killer T cells recognize infected cells by detecting viral proteins displayed on the surface of these cells. The T cells possess receptors specifically designed to identify these viral proteins, allowing them to target and eliminate the infected cells. Choice A is incorrect because B cells are not directly involved in the recognition process of infected cells by killer T cells. Choice B is incorrect because tiny bits of the virus's RNA being left around the cell is not how killer T cells primarily recognize infected cells. Choice C is incorrect because while macrophages play a role in immune responses, they do not directly assist in the recognition of infected cells by killer T cells.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Artificial/active. The MMR vaccine provides artificial/active immunity. It works by introducing a weakened or killed form of the virus to trigger the body's immune response, leading to the production of antibodies that offer long-lasting protection against measles, mumps, and rubella. Artificial immunity is obtained through medical intervention, such as vaccination, while active immunity involves the immune system's direct response to an antigen. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the MMR vaccine does not provide passive immunity nor is it acquired naturally; instead, it stimulates the body to actively produce its immune response.