TED-ED: How does the immune system work? - Emma Bryce

The video explains the immune system's crucial role in protecting the body from infections and diseases. It describes how leukocytes, or white blood cells, detect and respond to pathogens using antigens. The immune response involves phagocytes and lymphocytes, which work together to eliminate threats. Symptoms like fever and swelling aid this process. The immune system also helps develop long-term immunity, though it can malfunction in autoimmune diseases. Overall, the immune system is vital for maintaining health and preventing minor injuries or illnesses from becoming life-threatening.

What is the primary function of the immune system?

• To digest food

• To protect the body from infections and diseases

• To produce energy

• To regulate body temperature

What are leukocytes more commonly known as?

• Red blood cells

• White blood cells

• Platelets

• Plasma cells

How do phagocytes contribute to the immune response?

• By producing antibodies

• By consuming foreign cells

• By causing inflammation

• By lowering body temperature

What is the role of T cells in the immune system?

• To search for and destroy infected body cells

• To digest nutrients

• To produce hormones

• To transport oxygen

What is the purpose of antibodies in the immune system?

• To regulate body temperature

• To transport nutrients

• To latch onto antigens and destroy invading cells

• To increase blood pressure

Why do symptoms like high temperatures occur during an immune response?

• To make the body more comfortable

• To aid the immune response by making it harder for bacteria and viruses to reproduce

• To improve digestion

• To increase energy levels

What is a potential issue with the immune system in autoimmune diseases?

• It stops producing white blood cells

• It cannot detect any antigens

• It attacks the body's own healthy cells

• It fails to produce enough antibodies