Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 2 - 2003 - Paper 1
Question 2
Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium.
a.
i. Cells can be classified as prokaryotic or eukaryotic. To which group do bacterial cells belong?
ii. Name one feature whi... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 2 - 2003 - Paper 1
Step 1
i. Cells can be classified as prokaryotic or eukaryotic. To which group do bacterial cells belong?
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Answer
Bacterial cells belong to the group of prokaryotic cells. Prokaryotic organisms are characterized by their simple structure, lacking a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.
Step 2
ii. Name one feature which distinguishes prokaryotic organisms from eukaryotic organisms.
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One distinguishing feature of prokaryotic organisms is that they lack a membrane-bound nucleus, whereas eukaryotic organisms have a defined nucleus that contains their genetic material.
Step 3
b. Explain what makes the environment of the stomach unsuitable for the survival of some bacteria?
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The environment of the stomach is highly acidic, with a low pH, which can be hostile to many bacteria. Many bacteria cannot survive in such acidic conditions because it can denature proteins and disrupt cellular processes.
Step 4
c. Suggest a feature of Helicobacter pylori that could assist the bacteria’s survival in the stomach.
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Helicobacter pylori has the capability to produce urease, an enzyme that allows it to neutralize stomach acid, thus helping it to survive in the harsh acidic environment.
Step 5
i. Scientists are trying to develop a vaccine against the bacterium, Helicobacter pylori. What is a vaccine?
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A vaccine is a preparation that typically contains an antigen derived from a pathogen, which stimulates an immune response without causing the disease. Vaccines help the immune system recognize and fight pathogens more effectively.
Step 6
ii. How would the vaccine protect against infection by Helicobacter pylori?
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The vaccine would introduce the immune system to specific antigens present in Helicobacter pylori. This exposure helps the immune system to create memory cells, which can swiftly recognize and combat the bacteria upon future exposure.
Step 7
iii. Explain why this vaccine is unlikely to protect against infection by other bacteria as well as its action against Helicobacter pylori.
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This vaccine is unlikely to protect against other bacteria because it specifically targets the unique antigens of Helicobacter pylori. Different bacteria may have distinct antigens, and the immune response generated by the vaccine would not be effective against them.
