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If pathogens get past the body's physical and chemical barriers, the immune system responds. White blood cells are the key players. In this lesson you will learn about the three ways white blood cells defend the body: phagocytosis, antibody production, and antitoxin production. You will also learn about antigens, memory cells, and immunity.
White blood cells are found in the blood and lymphatic system. They are part of the body's second and third lines of defence. There are several types, but for GCSE you need to know about two main groups:
| Type | Role | Specific or non-specific? |
|---|---|---|
| Phagocytes | Engulf and digest pathogens | Non-specific (attack any pathogen) |
| Lymphocytes | Produce antibodies and antitoxins | Specific (target particular pathogens) |
Phagocytosis is the process by which phagocytes (a type of white blood cell) engulf and destroy pathogens. It is a non-specific response — phagocytes will attack any foreign pathogen they detect.
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