Immune System Components

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What are the primary components of the immune system?

The primary components are white blood cells, antibodies, the complement system, the lymphatic system, the spleen, the thymus, and bone marrow.

What is the function of white blood cells in the immune system?

White blood cells, or leukocytes, are responsible for defending the body against infectious disease and foreign invaders.

How do antibodies aid the immune system?

Antibodies identify and neutralize pathogens such as viruses and bacteria.

What role does the lymphatic system play in the immune system?

The lymphatic system transports lymph, a fluid containing infection-fighting white blood cells, throughout the body.

What is the function of the spleen in the immune system?

The spleen filters blood, stores white blood cells, and helps fight certain kinds of bacteria.

What role does bone marrow have in the immune response?

Bone marrow produces the stem cells that develop into red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

How does the thymus contribute to immune function?

The thymus is critical for the development of T-cells, a type of white blood cell essential for adaptive immunity.

What is the complement system?

The complement system is a set of proteins that work with antibodies and phagocytic cells to clear pathogens from the organism.

What is the function of phagocytes?

Phagocytes engulf and digest pathogens and debris in the body.

What is the role of T-cells in the immune system?

T-cells are involved in attacking infected or cancerous cells and coordinating the immune response.

What function do B-cells serve in the immune system?

B-cells produce antibodies that are used to attack invading bacteria, viruses, and toxins.

How do memory cells contribute to immunity?

Memory cells remember past infections and help the immune system respond more rapidly upon re-exposure to the same pathogen.

What is the function of natural killer cells?

Natural killer cells are lymphocytes that attack cells infected by viruses or have become cancerous.

How does the innate immune system differ from the adaptive immune system?

The innate immune system provides immediate but non-specific defense, whereas the adaptive immune system targets specific pathogens over time.

What is the role of the mucosal surfaces in immunity?

Mucosal surfaces like those in the respiratory and digestive tracts trap and neutralize pathogens, preventing them from entering the body.

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