A Fruit Fly, Internally Infected by a Potentially Pathogenic Fungus

Question

A fruit fly, internally infected by a potentially pathogenic fungus, is protected by
A) its plasma cells.
B) its immunoglobulins.
C) its antibodies.
D) its antimicrobial peptides.
E) its B cells.

Accepted Answer

Fruit flies are known to produce antimicrobial peptides as a first line of defense against potential pathogens. These peptides can disrupt the cell membrane of invading microorganisms, preventing infection. In this case, the potentially pathogenic fungus is likely being combated by the fruit fly's antimicrobial peptides. Plasma cells, immunoglobulins, antibodies, and B cells are all part of the immune response in vertebrates, but fruit flies do not have an adaptive immune system with these components.