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Questions and Answers
Which of the following best describes the primary function of tightly packed epithelial cells in the innate immune system?
Which of the following best describes the primary function of tightly packed epithelial cells in the innate immune system?
- To produce antibodies against specific antigens
- To facilitate the movement of antigens to the lymphatic system
- To secrete enzymes that break down pathogens
- To create a physical barrier preventing entry of foreign antigens (correct)
Which of the following is NOT a mechanical defense mechanism of the innate immune system mentioned?
Which of the following is NOT a mechanical defense mechanism of the innate immune system mentioned?
- Sneezing
- Urination
- Phagocytosis (correct)
- Vomiting
Why is the normal flora of the body considered beneficial to the innate immune system?
Why is the normal flora of the body considered beneficial to the innate immune system?
- They directly kill harmful bacteria using digestive enzymes
- They produce antibodies that target specific pathogens
- They occupy niches and compete for nutrients with pathogenic organisms (correct)
- They trigger inflammation that alerts the immune system to infection
Which of these is NOT a secreted substance with a protective function in the innate immune system?
Which of these is NOT a secreted substance with a protective function in the innate immune system?
A patient has food poisoning, in which they consumed spoiled food that contained pathogenic bacteria. Which of the following innate immune responses would be MOST directly involved?
A patient has food poisoning, in which they consumed spoiled food that contained pathogenic bacteria. Which of the following innate immune responses would be MOST directly involved?
Flashcards
Innate Immune System (First Line of Defense)
Innate Immune System (First Line of Defense)
The body's first line of defense against foreign invaders, including skin, mucous membranes, and bodily secretions.
Epithelial Cells
Epithelial Cells
Tightly packed cells that form a physical barrier, preventing foreign invaders from entering the body.
Secretions of the Innate Immune System
Secretions of the Innate Immune System
Substances secreted by epithelial cells that provide protection, such as mucus, sweat, saliva, tears, and earwax.
Normal Flora
Normal Flora
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Pathogenic Organisms
Pathogenic Organisms
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Study Notes
Innate Immune System: First Line of Defense
- The innate immune system provides 24/7 protection against foreign antigens.
- The first line of defense includes physical barriers like skin and the linings of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and respiratory tracts.
- Tightly packed epithelial cells create a physical barrier to prevent foreign antigen entry.
- Mechanical defenses remove foreign antigens: sneezing/coughing (respiratory), urination (genitourinary), vomiting/defecation (gastrointestinal).
- These actions help expel pathogens like in food poisoning.
Cellular Secretions for Protection
- Epithelial cells secrete substances like mucus, sweat, saliva, tears, and earwax.
- These secretions contain enzymes and antimicrobial peptides to break down bacteria.
- Tears flush out foreign substances in the eyes.
Normal Flora & Protection
- The body has its own microorganisms, considered normal flora.
- Many have a beneficial function, like gut bacteria producing vitamin K.
- Normal flora aids in preventing pathogenic organisms from colonizing.
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