Imune System Flashcards
(9 cards)
What are the major components in the immune system?
White blood cells, antibodies, complement system, lymphatic system, spleen, bone marrow, thymus
What is the difference between the innate and adaptive immune responses
The innate immune system, aka: the first line of defence, is something we are all born with. It is non-specific, meaning it treats all germs the same way. The adaptive immune system, aka:the second and third lines of defence, are something the body learns over time. They are specific, meaning that it treats all germs differently.
How does the immune system respond to pathogens to protect the body
With the different lines of defence.
What is the role of White Blood cells
They fight off the bacteria and viruses. When fighting an infection, your body creates more WBCs
What is the role of antibodies
They recognise foreign substances, like bacteria and viruses, and neutralises them
What is the role of the lymphatic system
It keeps body fluid levels in balance and helps fight against disease by sending out different WBC s like macrophages and lymphocytes
What is the role of the spleen
It filters the blood, removing old and damaged blood cells, and producing infection fighting cells. It acts as a secondary lymphoid organ because it hosts lymphocytes and macrophages.
What is the role of bone marrow
It releases blood cells into the bloodstream when they are mature and needed
What is the role of the thymus
It is responsible for the production and maturation of immune cells, lincluding small lymphocytes.
