6.3 Defence Against Infections Diseases

Question 1

Pathogens

Definition

Answer 1

Microbes that cause diseases

Question 2

Explain what the primary defence of pathogens is?

Answer 2

• skin is the primary defence b/c a tough layer that protects from physical and chemical damage
• sebum is secreted that keeps the skin moist, lowering the skin pH which inhibits fungi/bacteria growth

Question 3

Explain how mucous membranes inhibit bacterial growth?

Answer 3

• mucous membrances are found in nasal passages, foreskin of vagina and head of the penis
• it secretes mucus that trap in, swallow or expell harmful bacteria/pathogen
• they also have antiseptic properties b/c of the presence of anti-bacterial enzymes called lysozyme

Question 4

How do cuts breach the primary defence of pathogens?

Answer 4

• when skin is cut so are blood vessels, which exposes easier acess for the pathogens to get inside our blood stream, therefore affecting us