Table of Contents
Why is blood so important to the human body?
Blood brings oxygen and nutrients to all the parts of the body so they can keep working. Blood carries carbon dioxide and other waste materials to the lungs, kidneys, and digestive system to be removed from the body. Blood also fights infections, and carries hormones around the body.
How human blood is adapted to its function?
they have no nucleus so they can contain more haemoglobin. they are small and flexible so that they can fit through narrow blood vessels. they have a biconcave shape (flattened disc shape) to maximise their surface area for oxygen absorption.
What are the protective functions of blood?
Blood plays a protective role by transporting clotting factors and platelets to prevent blood loss after injury. Blood also transports the disease-fighting agents white blood cells to sites of infection.
Which components of the blood defend against bacteria and viruses?
White blood cells: Serving as an army against harmful bacteria and viruses, white blood cells search for, attack and destroy germs to keep you healthy. White blood cells are a key part of your immune system.
Do red blood cells protect the body?
Help heal wounds. They do this by fighting infection, and also by taking in matter, such as dead cells, tissue debris, and old red blood cells. Are our protection from foreign bodies that enter the blood, such as allergens. Help to protect against changed (mutated) cells, such as cancer.
Why are white blood cells important to the immune system?
White blood cells are essential for helping the immune system fight off infections. They are bigger than red blood cells, are fewer in number but have an equally effective impact. Maintaining a healthy white blood cell count is essential for inhibiting infections. It can also encourage the body to fight off any foreign invaders.
How does the body protect itself from infections?
Typically, mucous membranes are coated with secretions that fight microorganisms. For example, the mucous membranes of the eyes are bathed in tears, which contain an enzyme called lysozyme that attacks bacteria and helps protect the eyes from infection. The airways filter out particles that are present in the air that is inhaled.
What happens to immune cells during an infection?
During inflammation, the blood supply increases, helping carry immune cells to the affected area. Because of the increased blood flow, an infected area near the surface of the body becomes red and warm.
How does the immune system work to fight germs?
The adaptive (specific) immune system makes antibodies and uses them to specifically fight certain germs that the body has previously come into contact with. This is also known as an “acquired” (learned) or specific immune response.