The Immune System

• What is the main function of the immune system?

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

  Stops pathogens from entering the body
• 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 process called when white blood cells ingest pathogens?

  Phagocytosis
• What do white blood cells use to destroy pathogens?

  Enzymes
• What do antibodies do?

  Stick to pathogens and trigger their destruction
• How are antibodies produced?

  By white blood cells
• What is a key characteristic of antibodies?

  They are extremely specific
• How long can antibodies remain in the blood?

  A long time
• What do antitoxins do?

  Stick to toxins and prevent cell damage
• What can certain types of bacteria release?

  Toxins
• What are the functions of white blood cells in the immune system?

  • Ingest and destroy pathogens
  • Produce antibodies
  • Produce antitoxins
• How does the immune system respond to a pathogen invasion?

  1. White blood cells detect pathogens.
  2. They ingest and destroy pathogens via phagocytosis.
  3. They produce antibodies specific to the pathogen.
  4. They produce antitoxins to neutralize toxins.