White Blood Cells Flashcards

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What is the main job of white blood cells?

To defend the body against pathogens such as bacteria and viruses.

Where in the body are white blood cells found?

They travel in the blood and can move into tissues to reach infections.

Name the two main types of white blood cell you need to know at GCSE.

Phagocytes and lymphocytes.

What do phagocytes do to pathogens?

They surround the pathogens, then take them in (engulf them) and digest them.

Describe the basic steps of phagocytosis.

The phagocyte moves towards the pathogen, engulfs it, then enzymes inside the cell break it down.

What do lymphocytes make to help destroy pathogens?

They make proteins called antibodies.

What is an antibody?

An antibody is a protein made by lymphocytes. It joins to a specific antigen on a pathogen.

What is an antigen?

An antigen is a molecule on the surface of a pathogen. Antibodies can recognise it.

How do antibodies help get rid of pathogens?

Antibodies stick to pathogens and cause them to clump together. This makes it easier for other white blood cells to destroy them.

Besides antibodies, what else can some white blood cells produce to fight disease?

They can produce chemicals called antitoxins. Antitoxins neutralise toxins made by pathogens.