Page 121 - (DK) Danger! Open with Extreme Caution!

Along with the killer T cells, B cells form the brains of the defense team. They pinpoint and target key players in the attack team. B cells release chemicals called antibodies that disable specific bacteria and other pathogens, making them easier targets for their

B cells phagocyte teammates. Antibiotics However good the defense team is, it needs a little outside support to help it achieve the ultimate victory. That support comes in the form of antibiotics. These are powerful drugs that go straight for the bacteria on the opposing team and stop them from multiplying inside the body. No multiplication, no infection!

Superbugs Superbugs are the players to fear the most. They are bacteria that have become resistant to antibiotics on the defense team. MRSA is a superbug that can cause serious skin infections, especially when a person’s natural defense is weakened. Killer T cells These are the specialists on the defense team that make a beeline for attacking viruses on the other team. More specifically, killer T cells seek out body cells with viruses that are about to multip

Phagocytes These guys pack a real punch. Phagocytes are first into the fray and do their best to knock down the attack team. These are the defense cells that grab ahold of pathogens, eat them up, and destroy them. The nimblest are the neutrophils, but the more powerful are the extremely hungry macrophages. Vaccines Every team needs a trainer, and that’s exactly what vaccines do for the defense squad. They prime the B cells and T cells so

ATTACK AND DEFENSE 121
(c) 2011 Dorling Kindersley. All Rights Reserved.