The Adenosine deaminase deficiency results into :
Correct Answer :
Dysfunction of Immune system
Solution :
The correct option is Dysfunction of Immune system.
Step-by-Step Explanation:
1. Understanding Adenosine Deaminase (ADA):
Adenosine deaminase (ADA) is an essential enzyme present in most cells of the human body, but it is particularly active in lymphocytes (white blood cells). Its primary role is to catalyze the deamination of adenosine and deoxyadenosine into inosine and deoxyinosine, respectively. This process is crucial for the breakdown and clearance of metabolic waste products in cells.
2. The Effect of Deficiency:
When a mutation in the ADA gene leads to a deficiency of the adenosine deaminase enzyme, deoxyadenosine and its metabolites (specifically dATP) accumulate in the body's cells. These high levels of deoxyadenosine are highly toxic, particularly to T-lymphocytes and B-lymphocytes.
3. Impact on the Immune System:
Because lymphocytes are extremely sensitive to the accumulation of these toxic metabolites, they fail to develop, function, and survive properly. The destruction and depletion of T and B cells lead to Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID), which is characterized by a profound dysfunction of the immune system. Consequently, affected individuals are highly susceptible to severe, recurrent infections.
4. Evaluating Other Options:
- Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder primarily caused by the loss of dopamine-producing brain cells, unrelated to ADA deficiency.
- Digestive disorders refer to various conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract and are not directly caused by ADA deficiency.
- Addison’s disease is an endocrine disorder characterized by insufficient production of hormones by the adrenal glands.
Therefore, adenosine deaminase deficiency directly results in the dysfunction of the immune system.
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