How does the skin defend the body against pathogens?
It forms a physical barrier that blocks many pathogens from entering.
AQA GCSE Biology - Foundation (8461) · 4.3.1.6
Revise AQA GCSE Biology - Foundation (8461) specification point 4.3.1.6, Human defence systems, with free active-recall flashcards. Flip through the set or review every question and answer below.
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How does the skin defend the body against pathogens?
It forms a physical barrier that blocks many pathogens from entering.
How do nose hairs and mucus help defend the breathing system?
They trap particles and microorganisms from the air before they reach deeper parts of the breathing system.
How does stomach acid defend the body against pathogens?
It kills many pathogens swallowed in food or water.
How do white blood cells defend the body against pathogens that pass the first barriers?
They attack and destroy the pathogens.
What do goblet cells in the airways produce?
Mucus.
What does mucus trap in the airways?
Inhaled particles and pathogens.
How do ciliated cells move trapped material away from the lungs?
Their hair-like cilia beat, moving mucus and trapped material towards the throat.
What is the protective effect of mucus production and ciliary movement working together?
They help prevent particles and pathogens from reaching the gas exchange surfaces.
What are antitoxins?
Antibodies produced by white blood cells that bind to and neutralise specific toxins released by pathogens.
How does an antitoxin reduce the harm caused by a toxin?
It prevents the toxin from acting on body cells.
Does neutralising a pathogen’s toxin mean the pathogen has been destroyed?
No. Neutralising the toxin is different from destroying the pathogen.