7C - The Second Line of Defence Flashcards
leukocytes
A group of blood cells responsible for protecting the body against pathogens and foreign material. AKA white blood cells.
phagocyte
A group of leukocytes responsible for the endocytosis and destruction of pathogens, foreign material and cell debris.
neutrophil
The most common type of leukocyte in the body. Engages in phagocytosis of pathogens and foreign material, as well as the release of cytokines.
macrophage
A type of leukocyte found throughout the body that engages in phagocytosis and antigen presentation.
dendritic cell
A type of leukocyte that engages in phagocytosis and antigen presentation.
antigen-presenting cell
A subgroup of phagocytes that display antigens from consumed pathogens on their surface and interact with the adaptive immune system.
cytokine
A signalling molecule released by cells (typically in the immune system) which aids in communication between immune cells and helps protect against pathogens.
natural killer (NK) cell
A type of leukocyte responsible for the recognition and destruction of damaged and/or infected host cells.
mast cell
A type of leukocyte responsible for releasing histamine during allergic and inflammatory responses.
degranulation
The release of granule contents from a cell.
histamine
a molecule released by mast cells that plays a key role in inflammation.
inflammatory response
A series of biochemical events that occur in the body as a result of infection and/or trauma. Characterised by swelling, redness, pain and heat in the affected tissue.
eosinophil
A large granular leukocyte responsible for the release of toxic chemical mediators.
interferon
A cytokine released by virally infected cells that increases the viral resistance of neighbouring uninfected cells.
complement proteins
A number of different types of proteins found in the blood that opsonise, cause lysis and attract phagocytes to invading pathogens.
