Plants and animals are both susceptible to infection - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 7 - 2006 - Paper 1
Question 7
Plants and animals are both susceptible to infection.
a.
i. Name one feature of plants that inhibits the entry of infective organisms.
ii. Name one feature of h... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Plants and animals are both susceptible to infection - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 7 - 2006 - Paper 1
Step 1
a. i. Name one feature of plants that inhibits the entry of infective organisms.
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Answer
One feature of plants that inhibits the entry of infective organisms is the presence of a rigid cell wall. This cell wall acts as a physical barrier, preventing pathogens from easily penetrating plant tissues.
Step 2
a. ii. Name one feature of humans that inhibits the entry of infective organisms.
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One feature of humans that inhibits the entry of infective organisms is the skin, which acts as a protective barrier. It is composed of multiple layers and can prevent the entry of many pathogens.
Step 3
b. Outline one way in which a plant responds to minimise damage to its tissues.
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A plant may respond to infection by producing antimicrobial compounds, such as phytoalexins. These compounds help to inhibit the growth of pathogens and protect the plant's healthy tissues.
Step 4
c. Outline two general features of inflammation that minimise the impact of the infection.
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Feature 1: Increased blood flow to the affected area, which delivers immune cells and nutrients that aid in healing.
Feature 2: The release of inflammatory mediators, such as histamines, that increase permeability of blood vessels, allowing immune cells to extravasate into the tissues.
Step 5
d. Explain how cells of the immune system determine self from non-self molecules.
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Cells of the immune system utilize specific receptors known as Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules to distinguish self from non-self. MHC molecules present antigens on the surface of cells; cells displaying self-antigens are recognized and tolerated, while those displaying foreign antigens trigger an immune response.
Step 6
e. What substance does the body normally produce in response to an antigen?
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In response to an antigen, the body normally produces antibodies. These proteins specifically target and neutralize the invading pathogens.
Step 7
f. Explain the relationship between an allergen, mast cells and histamines.
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Allergens are substances that trigger an allergic reaction. When an allergen enters the body, it binds to IgE antibodies on the surface of mast cells. This binding causes mast cells to degranulate and release histamines, which contribute to the symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as inflammation and itching.