How do white blood cells defend against invading pathogens?

They can engulf and ingest pathogens; this is essentially the white blood 'eats' the pathogen. They secrete (release) antitoxins which counteract the toxins released by pathogens. The toxins they release are often what make us feel ill. The last element of their defence is releasing antibodies which 'attack' and bind the pathogen to stop it binding to cells and help to kill the pathogen.

EM

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

In DNA, what bonds form between the nitrogenous bases


Describe the process of diffusion with an example.


Human body temperature is kept within a narrow range. When the core body temperature is too low, this is detected by the thermoregulatory centre in the brain. Describe how the body responds when a decrease in core body temperature is detected.


Describe the process of the reflex arc.