Memory Lymphocytes and Immunisation

Question 1

Antigens trigger an immune response which causes the production of antibodies.

What else is produced in the response?

Answer 1

Memory lymphocytes

Question 2

(Exam-style question)

Answer 2

Question 3

Explain the process of immunisation.

Answer 3

• Immunisation involves injecting dead or inactive pathogens into the body
• These pathogens are antigenic (they carry antigens), so your body makes antibodies to help destroy the pathogens even though they’re harmless

Question 4

(Exam-style question)

Explain why a person who has been immunised against a disease would be less likely to develop the disease if the pathogen entered their body.

Answer 4

• Their body would respond to the vaccine by producing antibodies and memory lymphocytes
• Their immune system will recognise the antigens on the pathogen and respond quickly if it enters the body again
• This means they will be more likely to destroy the pathogen before it causes the disease