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Microorganisms cause infections - AQA - GCSE Biology - Question 3 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 3
Microorganisms cause infections. The human body has many ways of defending itself against microorganisms. Describe two ways the body prevents the entry of microorga... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Microorganisms cause infections - AQA - GCSE Biology - Question 3 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe two ways the body prevents the entry of microorganisms.
Answer
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The skin acts as a barrier that prevents pathogens from entering the body. It produces antimicrobial secretions that help to kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms.
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The trachea and bronchi are lined with mucus that traps pathogens, which are then moved by cilia towards the throat to be swallowed or expelled.
Step 2
Explain what testing must be done before this new drug can be used to treat people.
Answer
Before a new drug can be used to treat people, several stages of testing must be completed:
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Pre-clinical Trials: These trials are conducted on cells, tissues, or live animals to assess the drug's toxicity, dosage, and efficacy.
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Clinical Trials: Once pre-clinical trials indicate safety, the drug undergoes clinical trials. These trials involve testing the drug on healthy volunteers and patients, often at very low doses.
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Monitoring for Safety and Side Effects: Throughout the clinical trials, researchers must monitor the subjects for any adverse reactions or side effects.
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Blind Trials: These studies may employ a blind trial method, where some participants receive the placebo to compare the effects against those receiving the actual drug.
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Data Review: Finally, a peer review of the data ensures that findings are valid and trustworthy before the drug is approved for public use.