Question 54 Which of the following types of cells would a flu virus most likely target as the means of entry into the body? (A) Osteoclasts within bone cells (B) Epithelial cells lining the respiratory system (C) Epithelial cells on the skin's surface (D) Red blood cells that are exposed through breaks in the skin
Answer (1)
The flu virus, known as the influenza virus, primarily targets epithelial cells lining the respiratory system as its means of entry into the body.
Why does the flu virus target these cells?
Entry Point: The respiratory system, which includes the nasal passages, throat, and lungs, is directly exposed to the air we breathe. This makes it easily accessible for airborne pathogens like the flu virus.
Epithelial Cells' Role: These cells line the airways and act as a barrier. However, they can be breached by viruses, especially if the immune system is compromised or the exposure is significant.
Receptor Binding: The flu virus targets specific receptors (sialic acid residues) present on the surface of these respiratory epithelial cells. Once the virus binds to these receptors, it can gain entry into the cells, beginning the infection process.
Why not other options?
(A) Osteoclasts within bone cells: The flu virus is transmitted and affects areas that are exposed to the external environment, unlike osteoclasts, which are deep within bone tissue.
(C) Epithelial cells on the skin's surface: While skin cells can sometimes be involved in other infections, the flu virus specifically spreads through droplets in the air, making respiratory epithelial cells the more likely target.
(D) Red blood cells exposed through breaks in the skin: Red blood cells are not targeted by the flu virus for entry; the virus primarily targets cells in the respiratory tract for replication.
Based on this information, the correct choice is (B) Epithelial cells lining the respiratory system.
