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In Europe, viruses have infected a large number of frogs of different species - AQA - A-Level Biology - Question 3 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 3
In Europe, viruses have infected a large number of frogs of different species. The viruses are closely related and all belong to the Ranavirus group. Previously, th... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In Europe, viruses have infected a large number of frogs of different species - AQA - A-Level Biology - Question 3 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Suggest and explain how the viruses became able to infect other species of frog.
Answer
The viruses likely underwent a mutation in their viral DNA or RNA, which altered the structure of their viral attachment protein. This mutation may have enabled the virus to bind to receptors found on various species of frogs, allowing for cross-species infection.
Step 2
Step 3
Explain how determining the genome of the viruses could allow scientists to develop a vaccine.
Answer
Determining the genome enables scientists to identify protein sequences, including potential antigens that can stimulate an immune response. Once these antigens are identified, a vaccine can be developed to target them, helping to protect other frogs from infection.