(39) GCSE Biology Revision "Non-Specific Defence Systems"

Nonspecific defense system

The part of the immune system that provides general protection against pathogens and prevents their entry into the body.

Skin

The outer protective layer of the body that prevents pathogens from entering and produces sebum to kill bacteria.

Sebum

An oily substance produced by the skin that has antibacterial properties.

Cilia

Tiny hair-like structures in the trachea and bronchi that help trap and move mucus containing pathogens out of the respiratory system.

Hydrochloric acid

A strong acid in the stomach that kills pathogens present in food.

Mucus

A thick fluid produced in the body that traps pathogens, found in the nose and along the respiratory tract.

Pathogen

An organism or agent that causes disease, such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites.

Trachea

The airway that connects the throat to the lungs, protected by cilia that trap pathogens.

Bronchi

The two large air passages that branch from the trachea into the lungs, also lined with cilia to trap pathogens.

Scab

A protective crust that forms over a wound to help prevent pathogen entry during skin healing.