What is the role of antigens in the body's defence against disease?
(A) They bind to invading pathogens - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 9 - 2008 - Paper 1
Question 9
What is the role of antigens in the body's defence against disease?
(A) They bind to invading pathogens.
(B) They trigger the immune response.
(C) They inactivate... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:What is the role of antigens in the body's defence against disease?
(A) They bind to invading pathogens - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 9 - 2008 - Paper 1
Step 1
Identify the role of antigens
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Answer
Antigens are substances that the immune system recognizes as foreign or non-self. They play a crucial role in the body’s defense against diseases by helping to trigger the immune response.
Step 2
Analyze the response options
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Answer
(A) They bind to invading pathogens: This statement is not entirely accurate as it is antibodies that bind to pathogens, not antigens specifically.
(B) They trigger the immune response: This option is correct as antigens are key in initiating and regulating the immune response.
(C) They inactivate invading antibodies: This is incorrect; antigens do not inactivate antibodies.
(D) They suppress the inflammation response: This statement is also incorrect; antigens are involved in promoting the immune response rather than suppressing it.
Step 3
Select the correct answer
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Answer
After analyzing the options, the correct answer is (B): They trigger the immune response.