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The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can cause AIDS - Edexcel - GCSE Biology Combined Science - Question 1 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 1
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can cause AIDS. Which type of cell is destroyed by the HIV virus? ☐ A red blood cell ☐ B nerve cell ☐ C white blood cell ☐ D ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can cause AIDS - Edexcel - GCSE Biology Combined Science - Question 1 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Which type of cell is destroyed by the HIV virus?
Answer
The HIV virus primarily targets and destroys white blood cells, specifically CD4 T-cells. These cells are crucial for the immune system as they help coordinate the immune response. When HIV infects and reduces the number of these cells, the body becomes more susceptible to opportunistic infections.
Step 2
Describe how the specific immune system defends the body against disease.
Answer
The specific immune system, also known as the adaptive immune system, defends the body against disease through various mechanisms:
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Recognition: The immune system identifies foreign pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses, through specific antigens present on their surface.
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Activation: Upon recognition, B-cells and T-cells are activated. B-cells produce antibodies that bind to antigens, while T-cells kill infected host cells and help regulate the immune response.
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Memory: After infection, some B-cells and T-cells become memory cells, allowing for a faster and more effective response if the same pathogen is encountered again in the future.