CB5G The immune system Flashcards
What is the immune system
The bodys defence against pathogens once they have entered the body
Aims to prevent or minimise disease caused by pathogens
How do white blood cells detect pathogens in the body
Pathogens have unique antigens on their surface which are detected by specialised receptors white blood cells
What are memory lymphocytes
When pathogens have been killed some of the lymphocytes with antibodies match that pathogen’s antigens remain in the blood
Compare the primary and secondary immune responses
The secondary response produces antibodies more rapidly and in higher concentration than in primary response
What is a vaccination
Deliberate exposure of an individual to foreign antigens