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14. Many people are vaccinated against the influenza virus each year - Scottish Highers Human Biology - Question 14 - 2022
Question 14
14. Many people are vaccinated against the influenza virus each year. (a) The diagram represents the influenza virus and a treated form of the same virus, which is ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:14. Many people are vaccinated against the influenza virus each year - Scottish Highers Human Biology - Question 14 - 2022
Step 1
Step 2
Explain why the surface proteins of the virus used in the vaccine must remain undamaged.
Answer
The surface proteins must remain undamaged because they act as antigens, triggering an immune response. If they were damaged, they would not be recognized by lymphocytes, which is crucial for the development of memory cells and the production of antibodies.
Step 3
Step 4
Use the graph to describe two other ways in which the individual's blood antibody concentration differs after exposure to the influenza virus compared to after vaccination.
Answer
- The antibody concentration rises faster after exposure to the influenza virus compared to after vaccination.
- The antibody concentration reaches its peak in a shorter time frame after exposure than it does after vaccination.
Step 5
Describe how memory cells lead to an increase in antibody production after the individual has been exposed to the influenza virus.
Answer
Memory cells produce specific lymphocytes that respond quickly upon re-exposure to the influenza virus. They divide rapidly to form clones of lymphocytes, leading to a faster and more robust antibody response.
Step 6
Describe the process of phagocytosis.
Answer
Phagocytosis involves the engulfing of pathogens or debris by phagocytes. The phagocytes surround the pathogen to form a phagosome. Lysosomes then release enzymes that digest and break down the pathogen or foreign material, effectively removing it from the body.