TH1 cells are produced by which of the following cell types?
Which CD molecule is important for the presentation of lipid antigens?
All are true regarding agammaglobulinemia except:
The Nitroblue tetrazolium test is used to assess the function of which cells?
A 6-year-old boy presented with recurrent pyogenic abscess, runny nose, oral thrush, and rash on perineal areas. Pus culture showed growth of Staphylococcus aureus. A test was performed whose finding is shown below. What is the most common mode of inheritance of this disorder?

Which immunoglobulin (Ig) is primarily active in Type 1 hypersensitivity reactions?
A 10-year-old boy with a history of recurrent bacterial infections presents with fever and a productive cough. Biochemical analysis of his neutrophils demonstrates defective oxidative burst. This patient most likely has inherited mutations in the gene that encodes which of the following proteins?
Which is the most important Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) locus for organ transplantation and tissue typing?
Antinuclear antibodies are seen in which of the following conditions?
All of the following autoimmune disorders are more common in females, except:
Explanation: **Explanation:** The correct answer is **Helper T-cells**. **1. Why Helper T-cells are correct:** Naïve CD4+ T cells, also known as **T-helper (Th) cells**, differentiate into distinct subsets based on the cytokine environment they encounter during antigen presentation [1]. **TH1 cells** are a specific lineage of CD4+ Helper T-cells. Their differentiation is primarily driven by **IL-12** and **IFN-γ**. Once formed, TH1 cells secrete IFN-γ to activate macrophages, making them essential for controlling intracellular pathogens (like *M. tuberculosis*) [1], [2]. **2. Why other options are incorrect:** * **Memory T cells:** These are long-lived cells formed after an infection has subsided. While a TH1 cell can become a memory cell, memory cells are a *state* of differentiation, not the source that "produces" the TH1 lineage. * **Cytotoxic T cells (CD8+):** These cells are responsible for direct lysis of virally infected or tumor cells. They do not differentiate into TH1, TH2, or TH17 subsets; those classifications are specific to the CD4+ Helper lineage. * **Suppressor T cells:** Now commonly referred to as **Regulatory T cells (Tregs)**, these cells (CD4+ CD25+ FoxP3+) function to dampen the immune response and prevent autoimmunity, rather than producing inflammatory TH1 cells. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Transcription Factor:** The key master regulator for TH1 differentiation is **T-bet**. * **Cytokine Profile:** TH1 cells produce **IFN-γ, IL-2, and TNF-β** [2]. * **Hypersensitivity:** TH1 cells are the primary mediators of **Type IV (Delayed-Type) Hypersensitivity** reactions (e.g., Mantoux test) [2], [3]. * **Opposing Subset:** TH2 cells (driven by GATA-3) produce IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13, focusing on helminthic infections and allergic responses. **References:** [1] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. Diseases of the Immune System, p. 206. [2] Cross SS. Underwood's Pathology: A Clinical Approach. 6th ed. (Basic Pathology) introduces the student to key general principles of pathology, both as a medical science and as a clinical activity with a vital role in patient care. Part 2 (Disease Mechanisms) provides fundamental knowledge about the cellular and molecular processes involved in diseases, providing the rationale for their treatment. Part 3 (Systematic Pathology) deals in detail with specific diseases, with emphasis on the clinically important aspects., pp. 173-174. [3] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. Diseases of the Immune System, pp. 216-218.
Explanation: **Explanation:** The correct answer is **CD1**. While MHC Class I and II molecules are specialized for presenting peptide antigens [1], [2], the **CD1 family** of glycoproteins is structurally related to MHC Class I but has a unique hydrophobic binding pocket designed to present **lipid and glycolipid antigens** (such as mycolic acid from *Mycobacterium tuberculosis*) to T cells (specifically NKT cells). **Analysis of Options:** * **CD4 (Option A):** This is a co-receptor found on Helper T cells. It recognizes and binds to the invariant region of **MHC Class II** molecules during the presentation of exogenous peptide antigens [2], [3]. * **CD8 (Option B):** This is a co-receptor found on Cytotoxic T cells. It recognizes and binds to **MHC Class I** molecules during the presentation of endogenous (cytosolic) peptide antigens [3]. * **CD16 (Option D):** Also known as **FcγRIII**, this is a low-affinity receptor for the Fc portion of IgG. It is a characteristic marker for **Natural Killer (NK) cells** and is involved in Antibody-Dependent Cellular Cytotoxicity (ADCC). **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **CD1a, b, and c** are primarily expressed on professional antigen-presenting cells, especially **Langerhans cells** (CD1a is a specific marker used in the diagnosis of Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis) [4]. * **CD1d** is the isoform responsible for presenting lipids to **Natural Killer T (NKT) cells**. * Unlike MHC molecules, CD1 molecules are **non-polymorphic**, meaning they do not vary significantly between individuals. **References:** [1] Cross SS. Underwood's Pathology: A Clinical Approach. 6th ed. (Basic Pathology) introduces the student to key general principles of pathology, both as a medical science and as a clinical activity with a vital role in patient care. Part 2 (Disease Mechanisms) provides fundamental knowledge about the cellular and molecular processes involved in diseases, providing the rationale for their treatment. Part 3 (Systematic Pathology) deals in detail with specific diseases, with emphasis on the clinically important aspects., pp. 156-157. [2] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. Diseases of the Immune System, pp. 202-203. [3] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. Diseases of the Immune System, p. 240. [4] Cross SS. Underwood's Pathology: A Clinical Approach. 6th ed. (Basic Pathology) introduces the student to key general principles of pathology, both as a medical science and as a clinical activity with a vital role in patient care. Part 2 (Disease Mechanisms) provides fundamental knowledge about the cellular and molecular processes involved in diseases, providing the rationale for their treatment. Part 3 (Systematic Pathology) deals in detail with specific diseases, with emphasis on the clinically important aspects., pp. 174-175.
Explanation: The question refers to **X-linked Agammaglobulinemia (Bruton’s Disease)**, a primary immunodeficiency caused by a mutation in the **BTK (Bruton Tyrosine Kinase) gene**. This defect prevents pre-B cells from maturing into B cells, leading to a profound deficiency of antibodies and B-lymphocytes [1]. **Why Option D is the Correct Answer (The False Statement):** In Agammaglobulinemia, the primary pathology involves the **white pulp** of the spleen, specifically the lymphoid follicles where B cells reside. The **red pulp**, which is primarily involved in filtering old red blood cells and storing platelets, remains **morphologically normal**. Therefore, the statement that there is "decreased red pulp" is incorrect. **Analysis of Other Options:** * **Option A (Loss of germinal center):** Germinal centers are the sites of B-cell proliferation and differentiation. Since B cells are absent, germinal centers do not form in lymph nodes, tonsils, or Peyer’s patches [1]. * **Option B & C (Normal cortical/paracortical lymphocytes):** Agammaglobulinemia is a **pure B-cell defect**. T-cell mediated immunity remains intact. Therefore, T-cell dependent areas, such as the **paracortex** of lymph nodes and the **periarteriolar lymphoid sheaths (PALS)** in the spleen, show normal lymphocyte populations [1]. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Genetics:** X-linked recessive; mutation in the *BTK* gene (Chromosome Xq21.3). * **Clinical Presentation:** Recurrent pyogenic infections (e.g., *S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae*) starting after 6 months of age (once maternal IgG wanes) [2]. * **Diagnosis:** Absent/low B cells (CD19+, CD20+) on flow cytometry; low levels of all immunoglobulin classes (IgG, IgA, IgM) [1]. * **Key Histology:** Absent plasma cells and germinal centers throughout the body [1]. **References:** [1] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. Diseases of the Immune System, pp. 248-249. [2] Cross SS. Underwood's Pathology: A Clinical Approach. 6th ed. (Basic Pathology) introduces the student to key general principles of pathology, both as a medical science and as a clinical activity with a vital role in patient care. Part 2 (Disease Mechanisms) provides fundamental knowledge about the cellular and molecular processes involved in diseases, providing the rationale for their treatment. Part 3 (Systematic Pathology) deals in detail with specific diseases, with emphasis on the clinically important aspects., pp. 165-167.
Explanation: The **Nitroblue Tetrazolium (NBT) test** is a classic diagnostic tool used to evaluate the metabolic activity of **phagocytes** (specifically neutrophils and macrophages). [1] ### 1. Why Phagocytes is Correct The test assesses the **Respiratory Burst** (Oxidative Burst) mechanism. When phagocytes ingest pathogens, the enzyme **NADPH oxidase** reduces molecular oxygen into superoxide radicals. [2] * **Mechanism:** In the NBT test, the colorless NBT dye is added to a sample of the patient's neutrophils. If NADPH oxidase is functional, it reduces the NBT into **Formazan**, which precipitates as a **deep blue/black** insoluble pigment inside the cell. * **Clinical Significance:** A negative NBT test (cells remain colorless) is diagnostic of **Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD)**, an X-linked or autosomal recessive disorder characterized by a deficiency in NADPH oxidase. ### 2. Why Other Options are Incorrect * **B. Complement:** Complement function is typically assessed using the **CH50 assay** (for the classical pathway) or AH50 (for the alternative pathway). [1] * **C. T cells:** T-cell function is evaluated via delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) skin tests, flow cytometry (CD3/CD4/CD8 counts), or mitogen stimulation assays. * **D. B cells:** B-cell function is assessed by measuring serum immunoglobulin levels (IgG, IgA, IgM) or flow cytometry for CD19/CD20 markers. ### 3. High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG * **Gold Standard:** While the NBT test is high-yield for exams, the **Dihydrorhodamine (DHR) flow cytometry test** is now the preferred "gold standard" for diagnosing CGD due to higher sensitivity. * **Catalase-Positive Organisms:** Patients with defective phagocyte function (CGD) are uniquely susceptible to infections by catalase-positive organisms (e.g., *Staphylococcus aureus*, *Aspergillus*, *Serratia marcescens*) because these bacteria neutralize their own hydrogen peroxide, leaving the neutrophil with no oxidative tools to kill them. * **Mnemonic:** "NBT for Neutrophils" (Phagocytes). **References:** [1] Cross SS. Underwood's Pathology: A Clinical Approach. 6th ed. (Basic Pathology) introduces the student to key general principles of pathology, both as a medical science and as a clinical activity with a vital role in patient care. Part 2 (Disease Mechanisms) provides fundamental knowledge about the cellular and molecular processes involved in diseases, providing the rationale for their treatment. Part 3 (Systematic Pathology) deals in detail with specific diseases, with emphasis on the clinically important aspects., pp. 163-164. [2] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. Inflammation and Repair, pp. 89-91.
Explanation: ***X-linked recessive*** - The clinical presentation of recurrent **pyogenic abscesses** and **Staphylococcus aureus** infections in a young boy strongly suggests **Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD)**, with X-linked inheritance being the most common form (65-70% of cases). - X-linked CGD is caused by mutations in the **gp91phox gene (CYBB)** on the X chromosome, explaining why males are predominantly affected with this severe phenotype. *Autosomal recessive* - While autosomal recessive forms of CGD do exist (accounting for 30-35% of cases), they are **less common** than X-linked inheritance. - Autosomal recessive CGD involves mutations in genes like **p22phox**, **p47phox**, or **p67phox**, but X-linked remains the predominant inheritance pattern. *Autosomal dominant* - CGD does not typically follow an **autosomal dominant** inheritance pattern as it requires complete loss of **NADPH oxidase function**. - Heterozygous carriers usually have sufficient enzyme activity to prevent the severe immunodeficiency seen in this patient. *Mitochondrial inheritance* - **Mitochondrial inheritance** affects both males and females equally and is passed through the maternal line. - CGD specifically involves defects in the **NADPH oxidase complex** located in phagocytic cell membranes, not mitochondrial dysfunction.
Explanation: **Explanation:** **Type 1 Hypersensitivity (Immediate Hypersensitivity)** is an IgE-mediated immune response [2]. Upon initial exposure to an allergen, B-cells undergo class switching to produce **IgE**, which binds to high-affinity receptors (FcεRI) on the surface of **mast cells and basophils** (sensitization) [2,3]. Upon re-exposure, the allergen cross-links these IgE molecules, triggering degranulation and the release of vasoactive amines like histamine [1]. This leads to clinical manifestations such as anaphylaxis, asthma, and urticaria [4]. **Analysis of Options:** * **IgA (Option A):** Primarily found in mucosal secretions (tears, saliva, colostrum). It provides local immunity but is not the mediator of Type 1 reactions. * **IgD (Option C):** Found on the surface of B-cells; it acts as an antigen receptor for B-cell activation but has no known role in hypersensitivity. * **IgG (Option D):** The most abundant circulating antibody. It is the primary mediator in **Type 2** (cytotoxic) and **Type 3** (immune-complex) hypersensitivity reactions, but not Type 1 [3]. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **The "Atopic Triad":** Asthma, Allergic Rhinitis, and Atopic Dermatitis are all Type 1 reactions [4]. * **Cytokine Profile:** Th2 cells drive Type 1 reactions by secreting **IL-4** (stimulates IgE production) and **IL-5** (activates eosinophils) [1]. * **Prausnitz-Küstner (PK) Reaction:** A classic historical test used to demonstrate the serum-transferable nature of IgE. * **Casoni’s Test:** An immediate hypersensitivity skin test used for Hydatid disease. **References:** [1] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. The Lung, pp. 688-689. [2] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. Diseases of the Immune System, pp. 210-211. [3] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. Diseases of the Immune System, pp. 208-210. [4] Cross SS. Underwood's Pathology: A Clinical Approach. 6th ed. (Basic Pathology) introduces the student to key general principles of pathology, both as a medical science and as a clinical activity with a vital role in patient care. Part 2 (Disease Mechanisms) provides fundamental knowledge about the cellular and molecular processes involved in diseases, providing the rationale for their treatment. Part 3 (Systematic Pathology) deals in detail with specific diseases, with emphasis on the clinically important aspects., pp. 171-172.
Explanation: ### Explanation **Correct Option: D. NADPH oxidase** The clinical presentation of recurrent bacterial infections and a defective oxidative burst is characteristic of **Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD)**. * **Mechanism:** Phagocytes (neutrophils and macrophages) utilize the **NADPH oxidase enzyme complex** to convert molecular oxygen into superoxide radicals ($O_2^-$). This is the initial and rate-limiting step of the "respiratory burst" required to kill phagocytosed microbes. * **Genetics:** CGD is most commonly inherited as an **X-linked recessive** trait (mutation in the *gp91phox* subunit). Without a functional NADPH oxidase, neutrophils cannot generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to persistent intracellular infections and the formation of granulomas. **Incorrect Options:** * **A. Catalase:** This is an enzyme found in certain bacteria (e.g., *S. aureus*). Catalase-positive organisms neutralize the small amount of $H_2O_2$ produced by the host, making CGD patients particularly susceptible to these specific pathogens. * **B. Cytochrome P450:** This is a family of enzymes primarily involved in drug metabolism in the liver and steroidogenesis, not the phagocytic respiratory burst. * **C. Myeloperoxidase (MPO):** MPO converts $H_2O_2$ to HOCl (bleach). While MPO deficiency is common, it is usually asymptomatic or presents with mild fungal infections (Candidiasis). Crucially, the **oxidative burst remains intact** in MPO deficiency because the initial production of superoxide by NADPH oxidase is unaffected. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Gold Standard Diagnosis:** The **Dihydrorhodamine (DHR) 123 flow cytometry test** (preferred over the older Nitroblue Tetrazolium/NBT slide test). * **Common Pathogens:** Patients are prone to **Catalase-positive** organisms: *Staphylococcus aureus, Burkholderia cepacia, Serratia marcescens, Nocardia,* and *Aspergillus*. * **Pathology:** Look for granulomas in the skin, GI tract, or lungs due to the inability to clear ingested bacteria.
Explanation: **Explanation:** In organ transplantation, the **HLA-D (specifically HLA-DR)** locus is considered the most critical for determining histocompatibility and predicting graft survival. **Why HLA-D is the Correct Answer:** The HLA-D region (MHC Class II) is primarily responsible for initiating the immune response [1]. It is expressed on antigen-presenting cells and is recognized by CD4+ T-helper cells [2]. Since CD4+ cells are the "master switches" of the immune system, incompatibility at the HLA-D locus leads to potent T-cell proliferation (Mixed Lymphocyte Reaction) and rapid graft rejection. Among all loci, **HLA-DR** matching has the strongest correlation with long-term graft survival, especially in renal transplants. **Why Other Options are Incorrect:** * **HLA-A and HLA-B (MHC Class I):** While these are important and routinely typed, they are generally considered secondary to HLA-DR. Incompatibility here leads to CD8+ cytotoxic T-cell mediated damage, but the initial "trigger" usually stems from Class II (HLA-D) recognition [1]. * **HLA-C (MHC Class I):** This locus shows the least polymorphism among Class I antigens and plays a minor role in transplant rejection compared to A, B, and DR. **NEET-PG High-Yield Pearls:** * **MHC Location:** All HLA genes are located on the **Short arm of Chromosome 6 (6p)** [2]. * **Order of Importance:** For clinical transplantation, the priority of matching is usually: **HLA-DR > HLA-B > HLA-A**. * **Haplotype:** HLA genes are codominantly expressed and inherited as a "haplotype" (one set from each parent). * **Ankylosing Spondylitis:** Strongly associated with **HLA-B27**. * **Celiac Disease:** Associated with **HLA-DQ2/DQ8**. **References:** [1] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. Diseases of the Immune System, pp. 239-241. [2] Cross SS. Underwood's Pathology: A Clinical Approach. 6th ed. (Basic Pathology) introduces the student to key general principles of pathology, both as a medical science and as a clinical activity with a vital role in patient care. Part 2 (Disease Mechanisms) provides fundamental knowledge about the cellular and molecular processes involved in diseases, providing the rationale for their treatment. Part 3 (Systematic Pathology) deals in detail with specific diseases, with emphasis on the clinically important aspects., pp. 156-157.
Explanation: Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) are a group of autoantibodies directed against various components of the cell nucleus (DNA, RNA, histones, and nucleoproteins). While ANA is the hallmark screening test for **Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)**, it is not specific to it [1]. ANA can be positive in a wide range of systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases (SARDs), chronic infections, and even in a small percentage of healthy individuals [2]. * **Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE):** ANA is the best initial screening test for SLE due to its extremely high sensitivity (95–99%) [1]. A negative ANA test virtually rules out SLE. * **Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA):** Although Rheumatoid Factor (RF) and Anti-CCP are more specific, approximately 30–50% of RA patients test positive for ANA [2]. * **Sjögren’s Syndrome:** ANA is positive in approximately 70–80% of patients, often associated with specific antibodies like Anti-Ro (SS-A) and Anti-La (SS-B) [2]. Since ANA is prevalent in all three conditions, **"All of the above"** is the correct choice. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Gold Standard for ANA Detection:** Indirect Immunofluorescence (IIF) on HEp-2 cells. * **Specific vs. Sensitive:** ANA is highly **sensitive** for SLE, but **Anti-dsDNA** and **Anti-Smith (Sm)** are highly **specific** [1]. * **Drug-Induced Lupus:** Characterized by **Anti-histone antibodies** (ANA is almost always positive). * **Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD):** Characterized by high titers of **Anti-U1 RNP** antibodies. * **Scleroderma (Systemic Sclerosis):** **Anti-Scl-70** (Diffuse) and **Anti-centromere** (Limited/CREST) [2]. **References:** [1] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. Diseases of the Immune System, pp. 226-227. [2] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. Diseases of the Immune System, p. 228.
Explanation: **Explanation:** In the realm of autoimmune pathology, there is a well-documented **female preponderance** (often attributed to the role of estrogens, X-chromosome inactivation, and cytokine profiles) [2]. However, **Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM)** stands out as a notable exception to this rule [1]. **1. Why Type 1 Diabetes is the Correct Answer:** Unlike most autoimmune conditions, Type 1 Diabetes does not show a strong female bias [2]. In fact, in populations of European descent, there is a **slight male preponderance** (ratio approx. 1.5:1), while in other ethnicities, the sex ratio is roughly equal (1:1). The underlying reason is not fully understood but is thought to involve different environmental triggers and the lack of protective hormonal influences in males during puberty. **2. Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP):** Shows a clear female-to-male ratio of approximately **3:1**, especially in the reproductive age group. * **Multiple Sclerosis (MS):** A classic example of female predominance in neuro-immunology, with a ratio of roughly **2:1 to 3:1**. * **Scleroderma (Systemic Sclerosis):** Exhibits one of the highest female predilections among autoimmune diseases, with a ratio as high as **7:1 to 10:1**. **Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Highest Female Predilection:** SLE (Systemic Lupus Erytheladematosus) has a female-to-male ratio of **9:1**. * **Male Predominant Autoimmune/Rheumatologic Conditions:** Remember the mnemonic **"ABG"** — **A**nkylosing Spondylitis, **B**ehet’s Disease (in certain regions), and **G**oodpasture Syndrome [2]. * **Age Factor:** The female bias in autoimmunity is most pronounced during the reproductive years (puberty to menopause) [2]. **References:** [1] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. The Endocrine System, p. 1113. [2] Cross SS. Underwood's Pathology: A Clinical Approach. 6th ed. (Basic Pathology) introduces the student to key general principles of pathology, both as a medical science and as a clinical activity with a vital role in patient care. Part 2 (Disease Mechanisms) provides fundamental knowledge about the cellular and molecular processes involved in diseases, providing the rationale for their treatment. Part 3 (Systematic Pathology) deals in detail with specific diseases, with emphasis on the clinically important aspects., pp. 175-176.
Cells and Tissues of the Immune System
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Innate Immunity
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Adaptive Immunity
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Hypersensitivity Reactions
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Autoimmune Diseases
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Immunodeficiency Disorders
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Transplantation Immunopathology
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Immune Response to Infections
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Immunologic Laboratory Techniques
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Tumor Immunology
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