Chapter 20, Problem 1MC

All of the following are considered innate body defenses except(a) complement, (b) phagocytosis, (c) antibodies, (d) lysozyme, (e) inflammation.

Summary Introduction

Introduction:

The immune system is majorly divided into two parts: Innate immune system and Adaptive immune system. The innate immune system is considered as an older evolutionary defense strategy, found in plants, fungi, insects and primitive multicellular organisms. The main strength of innate body defense is the ability to take action very fast. But this type of innate immune response is not specialized for specific pathogens, so it does not require a long start-up phase. This type of broad effect makes it capable to some extent from stoping germs entry and spread in the body.

Answer to Problem 1MC

Correct answer:

The mechanism of “innate body defense” includes all except antibodies.

Explanation of Solution

Explanation for the correct answer:

Innate body defense is the nonspecific immunological response that is generated by the body against the pathogens. It comprises the inflammation process, lysozyme action, phagocytosis process, and the complement activation reaction. In contrast, the antibodies generate a specific immune response. These are formed by the B cells in response to the encounter of pathogens. Hence option (c) is a correct option.

Explanation for the incorrect answers:

Option (a) states that the mechanism of “innate body defense” includes all except complement. This is a false statement as complement system is a part of innate immunity, which increases the ability of antibodies and phagocytic cells to destroy microbes and promotes inflammation. Hence option (a) is an incorrect option.

Option (b) states that the mechanism of “innate body defense” includes all except phagocytosis. This is a false statement as phagocytosis is a part of innate immunity, and helps in elimination of pathogens that might cause infection. Hence option (b) is an incorrect option.

Option (d) states that the mechanism of “innate body defense” includes all except lysozyme. This is a false statement as lysozyme action is a part of innate immunity that works by attacking the perptidoglycan component of certain bacterial cell wall. Hence option (d) is an incorrect option.

Option (e) states that the mechanism of “innate body defense” includes all except inflammation. This is a false statement as inflammation is a part of innate immunity, which includes the influx of blood plasma and immune cells to infected or injured area. Hence option (e) is an incorrect option.

Conclusion

Thus it is concluded that innate body defense comprises the inflammation process, lysozyme action, phagocytosis process, and the complement activation reaction. In contrast, the antibodies generate a specific immune response.