Biology - transport systems in multicellular organisms

Plasma

Liquid component of blood transporting nutrients and gases.

Red Blood Cells

Biconcave cells transporting oxygen via haemoglobin.

Haemoglobin

Protein in red blood cells binding oxygen.

Oxyhaemoglobin

Complex of oxygen and haemoglobin in blood.

Deoxygenated Blood

Blood low in oxygen returning to the heart.

Oxygenated Blood

Blood rich in oxygen from the lungs.

Arteries

Thick-walled vessels carrying blood away from heart.

Veins

Thinner-walled vessels returning blood to the heart.

Capillaries

Thin-walled vessels for material exchange in tissues.

Phagocytes

White blood cells engulfing and digesting pathogens.

Lymphocytes

White blood cells producing antibodies against pathogens.

Antibodies

Proteins specifically targeting and destroying pathogens.

Pathogens

Micro-organisms causing diseases, like bacteria and viruses.

Phagocytosis

Process of engulfing and digesting pathogens.

Valves

Structures in veins preventing backflow of blood.

Coronary Arteries

Blood vessels supplying blood to the heart muscle.

Pulmonary Vein

Carries oxygenated blood from lungs to heart.

Aorta

Main artery distributing oxygenated blood to body.