The non-specific immune system provides resistance to infection by physical, chemical and cellular means - Scottish Highers Human Biology - Question 12 - 2018
Question 12
The non-specific immune system provides resistance to infection by physical, chemical and cellular means.
(a) (i) Name the type of cell which forms a physical barri... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The non-specific immune system provides resistance to infection by physical, chemical and cellular means - Scottish Highers Human Biology - Question 12 - 2018
Step 1
Name the type of cell which forms a physical barrier in the skin.
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Answer
Epithelial cell (or epithelium) forms a physical barrier in the skin.
Step 2
In addition to forming a physical barrier, state another way in which these cells resist infection.
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Answer
They produce secretions such as mucus and sweat, which help trap pathogens and prevent them from entering the body.
Step 3
Name the chemical which they release and explain how it increases the supply of fluid into the infected tissue.
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Answer
Chemical: Histamine
Explanation: Histamine causes vasodilation, which increases the permeability of capillaries. This allows more fluid and immune cells to reach the infected tissue.
Step 4
Complete the table by describing how these cells destroy pathogens.
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Type of cell How cell destroys pathogens
Phagocyte Engulfs and digests pathogens through a process known as phagocytosis.
NK cell Induces apoptosis (programmed cell death) in infected cells and triggers destructive enzymes.
Step 5
State how phagocytes and NK cells stimulate the specific immune response.
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Answer
They release cytokines, which help in activating and recruiting other immune cells, thereby enhancing the specific immune response.
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