Immunology Part 8 Flashcards
What is the lymphatic system?
A network of tissues and organs that help rid the body toxins, waste and other unwanted materials
What is the primary function of the lymphatic system?
To transport lymph, a fluid containing infection fighting white blood cells, throughout the body
What is a fever?
When your body thermostat is set higher than normal
What happens when you have a fever?
Pathogens are not able to function as effectively, and your immune system can fight them more easily
What does the third line of defence include?
The immune system, lymphocytes, antibodies and memory cells
What is the third line of defence?
A more specific response by the body to pathogens
What does the third line of defence involve in terms of specialised cells?
Specialised white blood cells known as T and B cells, recognise specific invading pathogens, react to the infection and remember the antigen
What does remembering the antigen allow for?
It means that the body is ready for any subsequent invasions by the same parasite
What are memory cells?
Cells produced that remember the specific parasite for the future, and allow our bodies to fight and destroy these pathogens faster in the future
What do pathogens contain?
Certain chemicals that are foreign substances to the body and are called antigens
What is an antigen?
Any substance that can initiate an immune response and bind to antibodies
What are lymphocytes?
White blood cells which carry a specific type of antibody?
What is an antibody?
A protein that has a chemical fit to a certain antigen
What is the function of an antibody?
To identify and help remove foreign antigens, viruses or bacteria
What do T cells do?
Activate the immune system and directly attack pathogens, as well as controlling and regulating the third line of defence
