This key facts covers Key Facts: Non-Specific Defences within Human Defense Systems - Non-specific for GCSE Biology. Physical and chemical barriers, white blood cell responses, inflammatory response It is section 2 of 16 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Key Facts: Non-Specific Defences
- Always ready: Non-specific defences are active from birth and respond immediately
- No discrimination: Responds the same way to all pathogens regardless of type
- Two main lines: Physical/chemical barriers (1st line) and phagocytes (2nd line)
- No memory: Same response every time — does not improve with repeated exposure
Practice questions for Human Defense Systems - Non-specific
Which part of the body acts as the main physical barrier to prevent pathogens entering?
Explain how mucus and cilia in the airways protect against pathogens.
Quick recall flashcards
What is phagocytosis?
The process by which white blood cells (phagocytes) engulf and digest pathogens or foreign particles.
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.