MCAT® ExamBiological and Biochemical Foundations of Living SystemsEasy
A patient is experiencing chronic fatigue, weight loss, and frequent infections. Blood tests reveal low red blood cell count, low white blood cell count, and low platelet count. Which process, essential for the formation of blood cellular components, is most likely impaired?
- AGluconeogenesis
- BLipogenesis
- CGlycolysis
- DHematopoiesis
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Hematopoiesis
The symptoms of low red blood cells (anemia), low white blood cells (immunodeficiency/leukopenia), and low platelets (thrombocytopenia) collectively indicate a problem with the production of all blood cellular components. This process is known as hematopoiesis, which occurs primarily in the bone marrow. Impairment of hematopoiesis would lead to a deficiency in all these cell types.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Gluconeogenesis is the synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate precursors, unrelated to blood cell production.
- B. Lipogenesis is the synthesis of fatty acids and lipids, not blood cell formation.
- C. Glycolysis is a metabolic pathway for glucose breakdown, not blood cell formation.
Hematopoiesis
Hematopoiesis is the process by which all blood cellular components are formed, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It occurs primarily in the bone marrow.
- Forms all types of blood cells
- Occurs in bone marrow in adults
- Involves hematopoietic stem cells
- Regulated by growth factors and cytokines
Memory trick: Hemo-Poiesis: Building Blood.