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11.

1 Defence against infectious disease


Monday, 9 July 2012 1:14 PM

11.1.1 Describe the process of blood clotting.

11.1.2 Outline the principle of challenge and response, clonal selection and memory cells as the basis of immunity. Fundamental principles of true immunity: 1. 2. Challenge and response: Immune system must be challenged by antigen during first infection to develop immunity All cellular events (macrophages, helper T-cells, B cells) are responses that lead to immunity Clonal selection: Identification of leucocytes (e.g. plasma B cells) that help with: Specific pathogen Multiple cell divisions to build up same cell type Immune system selects useful type of cell --> initiates cloning Memory cells: Provide long-term immunity Pathogen must be experienced once to produced memory cells True immunity to specific pathogen

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11.1.3 Define active and passive immunity.


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11.1.3 Define active and passive immunity.

Active immunity = immunity due to the production of antibodies by the organism itself after the bodys defence mechanisms have been stimulated by antigens.
Passive immunity = immunity due to the acquisition of antibodies from another organism in which active immunity has been stimulated, including via the placenta, colostrum, or by injection of antibodies. 11.1.4 Explain antibody production.

11.1.5 Describe the production of monoclonal antibodies and their use in diagnosis and in treatment.

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1. 2. 3. 4.

Antigens that bind to the desired antibody are injected into animal The animal's B-cells are extracted from the animal Tumour cells are obtained which divide endlessly B-cells and tumour cells are fused to become hybridoma cells, which divide and grow, producing antibodies 5. Antibodies extracted and purified for use Treatment of anthrax: Caused by bacteria that secrete poisons Monoclonal antibodies injected to neutralise toxins until body starts producing own antibodies Detection of malaria: Monoclonal antibodies are able to bind to antigens Presence of antigen detected by collecting sample and placing it on test plate coated in antibodies Enzyme added so that plate changes colour in presence of antibodies Detect level of infection and distinguish strain of disease 11.1.6 Explain the principle of vaccination. Vaccine is a modified, weakened form of pathogen Contains antigens from pathogens Primary response: stimulated by antigens, injected to patient Antigens stimulate macrophages --> cloning of B-cells Development of memory cells --> antibodies Production of antibodies is much faster upon 2nd exposure Secondary response: higher level of antibody production (immunity) Active immunity

11.1.7 Discuss the benefits and dangers of vaccination. Benefits Dangers

Immunity results Can limit spread of infectious diseases Reduces deaths due to disease Can protect vulnerable groups Decrease crippling effects and costs

May produce mild symptoms of disease Human error in preparation, storage, administration Individual may have allergic reaction Immunity may not be life-long (booster required) Toxic effects of mercury-based preservatives

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