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The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can cause AIDS - Edexcel - GCSE Biology Combined Science - Question 1 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 1
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can cause AIDS. Which type of cell is destroyed by the HIV virus? A red blood cell B nerve cell C white blood cell D sperm ce... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can cause AIDS - Edexcel - GCSE Biology Combined Science - Question 1 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Which type of cell is destroyed by the HIV virus?
Answer
The HIV virus primarily targets and destroys white blood cells, specifically CD4+ T cells. These cells play a crucial role in the immune system by helping the body fight off infections. As the HIV virus attacks these cells, the body's ability to respond to infections diminishes, leading to AIDS.
Step 2
Describe how the specific immune system defends the body against disease.
Answer
The specific immune system, also known as the adaptive immune system, defends the body against disease through several key mechanisms:
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Recognition: The immune system identifies pathogens through specific antigens present on their surfaces. The body then produces antibodies that specifically bind to these antigens.
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Response: Upon recognizing an infection, the immune system activates specific lymphocytes, such as B cells and T cells. B cells produce antibodies that neutralize pathogens, while T cells can kill infected cells or help other immune cells.
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Memory: After an infection is cleared, memory cells remain in the body. These cells remember the specific pathogen and enable a faster and more effective response if the same pathogen is encountered again in the future.