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People who lived in the United Kingdom during the 1980s and 1990s are not accepted as blood donors in Australia because they might have eaten beef infected with prions - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 15 - 2006 - Paper 1
Question 15
People who lived in the United Kingdom during the 1980s and 1990s are not accepted as blood donors in Australia because they might have eaten beef infected with prio... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:People who lived in the United Kingdom during the 1980s and 1990s are not accepted as blood donors in Australia because they might have eaten beef infected with prions - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 15 - 2006 - Paper 1
Step 1
Why is this precaution being taken?
Answer
The precaution is taken due to the risk associated with prions, which are misfolded proteins that can induce abnormal folding in normal cellular proteins. This can lead to severe neurodegenerative diseases.
In this context, the correct answer is:
(D) Donated blood might contain prions capable of altering protein structure in the brain cells.
This highlights the potential for prions to propagate within the recipient's brain, posing significant health risks.