The Immune System

• What is the main function of the immune system?

  To protect against pathogens
• What happens when the skin is damaged?

  Pathogens can invade the body
• How do pathogens affect the body?

  They multiply and damage healthy tissue
• What are toxins?

  Chemicals released by bacteria
• What are the two main functions of the immune system?

  Destroys pathogens and protects 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?

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

  To take in pathogens
• What is the process called when white blood cells destroy pathogens?

  Phagocytosis
• How do white blood cells destroy pathogens during phagocytosis?

  By using enzymes
• What are antibodies?

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

  They stick to pathogens and trigger destruction
• Are antibodies specific or nonspecific?

  Extremely specific
• What happens when a person catches measles?

  They develop antibodies against the measles virus
• How long can antibodies remain in the blood?

  For a long time
• What do antitoxins do?

  They prevent toxins from damaging cells
• What do white blood cells produce to counteract toxins?

  Antitoxins
• How do antitoxins interact with toxins?

  They stick to toxin molecules
• What are the key functions of the immune system?

  • Destroys pathogens
  • Protects against future infections
• What are the functions of white blood cells in the immune response?

  1. Ingest and destroy pathogens (phagocytosis)
  2. Produce antibodies
  3. Produce antitoxins
• How do antibodies and antitoxins differ in their functions?

  • Antibodies: Target pathogens for destruction
  • Antitoxins: Neutralize harmful toxins