immune system

• What is the main purpose of the immune system?

  To protect us against pathogens
• What does the nonspecific defense system do?

  It stops pathogens from entering the body
• What happens when the skin is damaged?

  Pathogens can invade the body and enter the bloodstream
• How do pathogens affect healthy tissue?

  They can multiply and damage healthy tissue
• What are toxins?

  Chemicals released by bacteria that make us feel unwell
• What are the two main functions of the immune system?

  To destroy pathogens and protect against future infections
• What type of cells are involved in the immune system?

  White blood cells
• What is the first function of white blood cells?

  To ingest and destroy pathogens
• What does the term 'ingest' mean in the context of white blood cells?

  To take in pathogens
• What is phagocytosis?

  The process by which white blood cells ingest and destroy pathogens
• What do white blood cells produce to destroy pathogens?

  Antibodies
• What are antibodies?

  Protein molecules produced by white blood cells
• How do antibodies function against pathogens?

  They stick to pathogens and trigger their destruction
• Why are antibodies considered specific?

  They protect against only one type of pathogen
• How long can antibodies remain in the blood?

  For a long time
• What are antitoxins?

  Chemicals produced by white blood cells that stick to toxins
• What is the role of antitoxins in the immune system?

  They prevent toxins from damaging cells
• What are the key functions of the immune system?

  • Destroys pathogens
  • Produces antibodies
  • Protects against future infections
• What is the process of phagocytosis?

  1. White blood cells detect chemicals from pathogens
  2. They move towards and ingest the pathogens
  3. Enzymes are used to destroy the pathogens
• How do antibodies provide immunity?

  • Antibodies are specific to pathogens
  • They remain in the blood for long periods
  • They trigger destruction of pathogens upon re-infection
• What is the relationship between toxins and antitoxins?

  • Toxins are harmful chemicals released by bacteria
  • Antitoxins are produced by white blood cells to neutralize toxins
  • Antitoxins prevent damage to cells