The lymphatic system consists of vessels, lymph nodes, the spleen, the thymus gland, ad the tonsils and they all help protect the body by fighting diseases.
Skin is an effective barrier to the entry of microorganisms, while tears, saliva, mucus, and earwax trap pr wash microorganisms away. Digestive acid in the stomach kills many organisms while vomiting, defecation, and urination physically remove organisms after entry in the body.
Phagocytes surround and engulf microorganisms while natural killer cells kill their targets by releasing damaging chemicals. Interferons are proteins that interfere with viral reproduction and other circulating proteins either kill or mark microorganisms for elimination.
Cells of the immune system can distinguish foreign and damaged cells from healthy cells by surface cell markers called MHC proteins that identify the cells as "self". B cells produce antibodies against foreign antigens while T cells enhance the immune response and kill foreign cells directly.
Immune memory creates immunity and medical assistance like vaccines immunize the body n advance against a particular disease.
Here's a different approach to using an actual video game (called Final Fantasy XII) to teach about the immune systems. I though it was entertaining, what do you think? Please comment. Thank you.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kskFjm1pKEs
Reference:
Johnson, M. D. (2010). Human Biology: Concepts and Current Issues (5th ed.). San Francisco: Pearson Education.
Generally, I do not care for videos/movies that are starwars-like; however, because of the nature of the immune sysem, the video was very appropriate. I enjoyed it. Thanks for sharing it.
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