**Core Concept:** Reactive oxygen intermediates (ROI) are highly reactive molecules produced by neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, as a part of the immune response to fight infections. ROI contributes to the host defense mechanism by damaging pathogens directly and indirectly by activating other immune cells.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** The correct answer, NADPH oxidase (C), is a membrane-bound enzyme complex found in neutrophils and is responsible for generating reactive oxygen intermediates (ROI). When activated, NADPH oxidase catalyses the reduction of oxygen to superoxide anion (O2-) which is then converted to other ROI like hydrogen peroxide, hydroxyl radical, and hypochlorous acid. These reactive molecules play a crucial role in the immune response against infections.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. NADPH oxidase is not involved in generating ROI, making it incorrect.
B. Phospholipase C (A) is an enzyme involved in the signaling pathways of various cellular processes, not related to ROI generation.
D. Phospholipase A2 (D) is an enzyme involved in phospholipid hydrolysis, not related to ROI generation.
**Clinical Pearl:** Neutrophil-derived reactive oxygen intermediates contribute to the host defense mechanism against infections, demonstrating the importance of a well-functioning immune system.
**Correct Answer:** NADPH oxidase (C) helps in generating reactive oxygen intermediates in neutrophils during immune response.
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