Non Specific Response Flashcards
(4 cards)
1
Q
How does phagocytosis destroy pathogens?
A
- Phagocytes (macrophages and neutrophils) engulf pathogens in a PHAGOSOME
- Phagosome then fuses with a lysosome which has enzymes to digest it
- Phagocyte then releases CYTOKINES which causes other phagocytes to move to the spot of infection, stimulating a specific immune response.
2
Q
What is the role/purpose of opsonin
A
- Binds to pathogens and tags them as FOREIGN so its easily recognisable to phagocytes.
- Phagocytes have receptors on their cell membrane that are complementary to opsonin (when it binds to opsonin, a pathogen is engulfed)
3
Q
Outline the process of inflammation.
A
- At site of damage, mast cells and basophils release HISTAMINES
- These chemicals cause blood vessels to dilate (vasodilation) producing local heat and redness.
- Histamines also cause walls of capillaries to become leaky so plasma and white blood cells is forced out to desroy pathogens.
4
Q
How do fevers treat infections?
A
- Raise body temperature which slows the reproduction rate of pathogens so less damage is caused.
- Immune system works better at high temps
If body is above 40C some enzymes will denature causing tissue damage.
