In Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome, what process is primarily affected by the gene mutation?

Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome is caused by mutations in the WAS gene, which is crucial for the normal functioning of cells, particularly in the immune system and platelets. The primary effect of the gene mutation in this condition is on cytoskeletal dynamics, which play a significant role in how leukocytes (white blood cells) and platelets function.

In this syndrome, the defective protein leads to issues in the organization and stability of the cytoskeleton, resulting in impaired immune responses and bleeding problems due to the dysfunctional platelets. The challenges with leukocyte mobility and function contribute to the recurrent infections that individuals with Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome experience, while the abnormal platelets result in bleeding tendencies.

The other options relate to processes that might be indirectly impacted, but the fundamental issue in Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome centers on cytoskeletal changes, reinforcing why this particular aspect is critical to understanding the syndrome’s pathophysiology.