Biology science
Immunity and microbial organisms
What is immunity?
Answer: Immunity is the ability for the body to defend itself against harmful
microorganisms (such as viruses, bacteria, pathogens, and parasites) that cause
diseases, infections, and that may lead to life-threatening situations.
Why does the body need immunity?
Answer: The body needs immunity to protect itself from harmful microorganisms
which cause diseases, infections, and that may lead to life-threatening situations.
What is the complexity of the immune system (defense system)?
Answer: The defense system is complex because it is made up of a variety of cells,
molecules, and mechanisms.
What are the mechanisms that make up the system?
Answer: The mechanisms that make up the system are physical barriers, cellular
defense, and antimicrobial molecules.
What are the types of immunity?
Answer: (a) Innate and (b) Acquired immunity.
What is innate immunity?
Answer: Innate immunity is the body's natural and non-specific defense against
infections. It is present from birth and the first line of defense against pathogens.
What are innate immunity mechanisms?
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Answer: The mechanisms of innate immunity include physical barriers (such as the
skin and mucous membrane which prevents pathogens from entering into the
body), cellular defense (such as phagocytes which engulfs and destroys pathogens),
and antimicrobial molecules (such as interferons which inhibit the growth of
pathogens).
1. Acquired Immunity
Answer: Acquired immunity is the body's specific defense against pathogens,
developed after exposure, providing long-lasting protection.
At what point does acquired immunity need support or boost from immunization
administration?
Answer: Passive administration of preformed antibodies provides immediate
protection against specific pathogens.
What are the cells mediated by acquired immunity?
Answer: B-lymphocytes and T-lymphocytes.
What is B-lymphosis and T-lymphosis?
Answer: B-lymphocytes are proteins which specifically bind and neutralize
pathogens.
T-lymphocytes assist by activating the b-lymphocytes cells and directly care for
infected cells.
What are the key mechanisms of immunity?
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