3.3.14

The Immune System

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The Immune System

If a pathogen (disease-causing microorganism) enters the body, the immune system is activated. The immune system is made up of different white blood cells, which have different functions.

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Phagocytosis

  • White blood cells called phagocytes find the pathogen and engulf it by changing shape.
  • The phagocyte ingests (absorbs) and digests the pathogen, destroying it.
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Antibodies

  • White blood cells called lymphocytes recognise foreign antigens (proteins) on the surface of pathogens and produce protein molecules called antibodies.
  • Antibodies are specific to particular pathogens.

Jump to other topics

1The Nature & Variety of Living Organisms

2Structure & Functions in Living Organisms

3Organism Functions

3.1Respiration

3.2Gas Exchange

3.3Transport

3.4Excretion

3.5Coordination & Response

4Reproduction & Inheritance

5Ecology

6Biological Resources

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