communicable diseases #8: immune system Flashcards
what is the second line of defence?
the immune system
what are the two types of white blood cells?
phagocytes and lymphocytes
what do phagocytes do?
engulf pathogens
what happens once the pathogen is engulfed?
The phagocyte’s membrane surrounds the pathogen and enzymes found inside the cell break down the pathogen in order to destroy it.
what are lymphocytes?
another type of white blood cell that recognises proteins on the surface of pathogens called antigens.
what do lymphocytes do?
Lymphocytes detect that these antigens are foreign and produce antibodies. The antibodies cause pathogens to stick together and make it easier for phagocytes to engulf them.
what do antibodies do?
they cause pathogens to stick together and make it easier for phagocytes to engulf them.
what can lymphocytes ALSO do?
they produce antitoxins to neutralise pathogen’s toxins
