Topics 6&11 Defence against infectious disease cont’d

Describe the process of Blood Clotting Clotting factors are released from platelets, damaged cells, and or damaged blood vessels (TF)

Outline the principle of challenge and response, clonal selection and memory cells as the basis of immunity

Define Passive and Active Immunity Active – antibodies produced by the organism itself Passive – acquisition of antibodies produced from another organism Ex. Placenta, colostrum, or via injection

Explain antibody production Limit to…. 1.antigen presentation by macrophages, 2.activation of helper T-cells leading to activation of B-cells (B-lymphocytes) 3.B-cells divide into plasma cell clones and memory cells

Monoclonal Antibodies (Mabs)

Mabs in diagnosis and treatment Diagnostic tests to detect small amounts of drugs, toxins or hormones, e.g. monoclonal antibodies to human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) are used in pregnancy test kits. Another diagnostic uses of antibodies is the diagnosis of AIDS. Antibodies are used in radioimmunotherapy of cancer, and some new methods can even target only the cell membranes of cancerous cells. Monoclonal antibodies can be used to treat viral diseases, traditionally considered "untreatable". In fact, there is some evidence to suggest that antibodies may lead to a cure for AIDS.

Explain the principle of vaccination Active immunity and the role of memory cells is the basis.

Discuss the benefits and dangers of vaccination PROS: Total elimination of disease (smallpox, polio next?) Prevention of pandemics and epidemics Decreased health-care costs CONS: Possible side-effects esp to Hg in vaccines Possible overload of immune sys Possible link to other conditions (autism?)