# Describe the role of white blood cells in defending the body against pathogens after they have entered the bloodstream.

> AQA GCSE Biology (8461) — 4.3.1 Communicable diseases · Describe · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. White blood cells can engulf and digest pathogens (phagocytosis)
2. White blood cells produce antibodies that target specific pathogens
3. Antibodies cause pathogens to clump together or neutralise them / mark pathogens for destruction
4. White blood cells produce antitoxins that neutralise toxins released by pathogens

## Key terms

- [white blood cells](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/white-blood-cells)
- [pathogens](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/pathogens)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA GCSE Biology (8461)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/describe-the-role-of-white-blood-0ada02b4) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.