Question

IFN- \(\alpha\) administration induces the degradation of the amino acid: a. choline b. cysteine c. serine d. tryptophan e. tyrosine

Short answer

Answer: Tryptophan

Step-by-step solution

Understand the role of IFN-α

Interferon-alpha (IFN-α) is an antiviral cytokine, a type of protein involved in the immune response. It plays a role in modulating the immune system, which can, in turn, affect the degradation of certain amino acids.

Evaluate each amino acid

Let's look at each amino acid and determine if it is likely to be degraded upon IFN-α administration: a. Choline - Although important in cell membrane function, choline is not an amino acid and thus can be eliminated from the list. b. Cysteine - It is an amino acid critical for the synthesis of proteins and the maintenance of certain cellular structures, but it is not directly linked to the response of IFN-α in the immune system. c. Serine - Serine is a non-essential amino acid that plays a role in metabolism and various cellular functions. However, its degradation is not linked to the immune response and thus not linked to IFN-α administration. d. Tryptophan - Tryptophan is an essential amino acid known for its role in the production of serotonin, which affects mood and sleep. It has been found that IFN-α administration induces the enzyme indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) responsible for tryptophan degradation as a part of the antiviral defense mechanism. e. Tyrosine - Tyrosine is an amino acid precursor to various neurotransmitters and hormones, but its degradation is not directly influenced by the presence of IFN-α.

Identify the correct amino acid

Given the analysis in step 2, we can conclude that tryptophan (d) is the amino acid that is degraded upon IFN-α administration. The response of IDO induction upon IFN-α administration is directly related to tryptophan degradation as a part of the immune system's antiviral defense mechanism.

Key concepts

Interferon-Alpha

Interferon-alpha (IFN-α) is a powerful cytokine, playing a crucial role in the body's antiviral defense mechanisms. When a virus enters the body, IFN-α helps to trigger the immune response by alerting nearby cells. This cytokine acts as a signaling protein and helps the immune system in recognizing and attacking infected cells.

• Production: IFN-α is produced by cells like leukocytes in the presence of viral infections.
• Functions: It aids in increasing antigen presentation, inhibiting viral replication, and modulating immune responses.
• Uses: Clinically, IFN-α is used to treat diseases like hepatitis and certain types of cancer, due to its ability to regulate immune responses.

Additionally, IFN-α influences various biological pathways, including the degradation of specific amino acids.

Amino Acid Degradation

Amino acid degradation is a process where amino acids are broken down into smaller molecules. This degradation can be activated by various biological factors, including certain cytokines like interferons.
During IFN-α administration, one amino acid of particular interest is tryptophan. This amino acid undergoes degradation as a part of the immune system's response to pathogens.

• Enzyme Activation: IFN-α induces the enzyme indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), which is responsible for breaking down tryptophan.
• Importance: This process reduces tryptophan levels, which is crucial for preventing viral replication and modulating inflammation.
• Outcome: Lowered tryptophan levels lead to decreased synthesis of serotonin, linking the degradation to mood and immune health.

Immune Response

The immune response is a complex defense system that protects the body from harmful pathogens like viruses and bacteria. Interferon-alpha plays an essential role in enhancing this response, particularly through amino acid degradation.

• Role of Cytokines: Cytokines like IFN-α are key players in signaling and directing immune cells to infection sites.
• Amino Acid Impact: Degradation of tryptophan via the enzyme IDO, triggered by IFN-α, illustrates an intricate part of the immune response strategy.
• Health Implications: Effective immune response helps in reducing infection spread, manages inflammation, and ensures the recovery of the body from diseases.

Understanding these connections highlights the importance of IFN-α in managing and activating immune pathways to protect the body efficiently.