Infection & ResponseHigh Exam FrequencyAQAEdexcelOCRWJEC

Human Defense Systems - Non-specific

Physical and chemical barriers, white blood cell responses, inflammatory response

What you'll cover

  • First line of defense: skin, mucus, stomach acid
  • Second line of defense: white blood cells
  • Phagocytosis process by macrophages
  • Inflammatory response and fever
  • Chemical defenses: enzymes in tears, antibacterial substances
  • Physical barriers: cilia, stomach acid pH
  • White blood cell types and functions
  • Links to blood components (Topic 12)

Sample Flashcards

What is sebum?
An oily substance produced by sebaceous glands in the skin that creates an acidic environment on the skin surface, inhibiting bacterial and fungal growth.
What is phagocytosis?
The process by which white blood cells (phagocytes) engulf and digest pathogens or foreign particles.

Sample Questions

Which part of the body acts as the main physical barrier to prevent pathogens entering?

  • A. The skin
  • B. The lungs
  • C. The heart
  • D. The brain
1 markfoundation

Explain how mucus and cilia in the airways protect against pathogens.

3 marksstandard

19

exam-style questions

22

revision flashcards

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