On Thursday, May 9, 2013
Describe the function of the immune system.
-The purpose of the immune system is to keep infectious microorganisms, such as certain bacteria, viruses, and fungi, out of the body, and to destroy any infectious microorganisms that do invade the body.Describe the actions of B cells and T cells in an immune response.
- T-cells are the ones that grab onto the antigens in your body (bacteria, viruses, etc). The T-cells then present them to the B-cells, which are the ones that actually make antibodies against the antigens. B-cells and their antibodies are called humoral immunity. T-cells and their effects on other cells are called cellular immunity.Describe at least two immune disorders.
- Lupus. It is more common in women than in men. It is not believed to be contagious, and the exact cause of the disease has not been determined. Some research seems to show that lupus may be at least in part due to genetics, as people who have relatives who suffer from the disease have a higher risk of contracting lupus themselves. Some researchers believe there may be an environmental trigger that brings about the onset of lupus. Smoking and exposure to ultraviolent light are possibly linked to the disease.Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune disorder that primarily affects the nervous system. It is considered a localized disorder, but because it attacks the nervous system, the symptoms can exhibit in many parts of the body. MS is a disease that causes the immune system to attack the protective coating of nerves. The severity of the disease varies greatly from one individual to another, but in very extreme cases, suffers may be unable to walk or speak. There is currently no cure for MS.
