Name: Period: Date:
Immune System Webquest
1. Diseases are caused by many different factors. Some conditions are the result of genetic
mutations, or changes in the DNA of the individual. These are called genetic disorders. Review
the information on DNA and genes and then click on page 3 for information on specific genetic
conditions. http://teenshealth.org/en/teens/genes-genetic-disorders.html?WT.ac=ctg#
Name and describe three genetic conditions:
A)____________________:
B)____________________:
C)____________________:
2. The environment can also play an important role in the health of a community.
http://ehso.com/environmentaldiseases.htm
Name and describe three environmental diseases (be sure to mention what the cause is)
A)____________________:
B)____________________:
C)____________________:
3. Our body has many ways to protect itself from pathogens, environmental hazards, and even
genetic mutations. Use the following link to explore the body’s lines of defense.
http://www.microbiologyonline.org.uk/about-microbiology/microbes-and-the-human-body/
immune-system
The first line of defense includes barriers. Describe them below:
Physical:
Chemical:
Which type of barrier was not on the website but was in your outline?
4. The second line of defense begins if the pathogens enter the body and start an infection.
Watch the video below that describes the process of phagocytosis, inflammation and fever.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=fvwp&v=_bNN95sA6-8&NR=1
Explain what inflammation is. Name at least two changes the body makes in an effort to
achieve homeostasis and eliminate the pathogen.
5. The immune system has a lot of cells types to help it keep the body healthy. Read the article
that describes the B cells and T cells using the link below:
http://teenshealth.org/en/teens/immune.html?ref=search#
A) What do B cells and T cells have in common?
B) Name at least one difference between B cells and T cells.
6. Allergies occur when the body treats a harmless substance, like pollen or a peanut, like a
pathogen. The body then reacts with an immune response to try to destroy the allergen.
Use the link to fill in the chart about common allergies.
http://teenshealth.org/en/teens/allergies.html?WT.ac=t-ra#
Types of common allergens Examples
7. It is very likely that you have taken antibiotics for an infection. Click on the link below in
order to answer the questions.
http://www.microbiologyonline.org.uk/about-microbiology/microbes-and-the-human-body/
antibiotics
What are antibiotics used for?
Draw the picture at the top of the webpage and then describe what it shows.
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