# Explain how the human body uses non-specific defences and the immune system to protect itself after a pathogen enters through a cut in the skin.

> Eduqas A-Level Biology — 3.2 Respiration · Explain · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Blood clotting seals the wound / acts as a mechanical barrier to prevent further pathogens entering
2. White blood cells (phagocytes) engulf / ingest the pathogen
3. Phagocytes digest the pathogen using enzymes (phagocytosis)
4. Lymphocytes produce antibodies that are specific / complementary to the antigens on the pathogen
5. Memory cells remain after the infection so that if the same pathogen enters again, antibodies are produced more quickly

## Key terms

- [non-specific defence](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/non-specific-defence)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas A-Level Biology](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" 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/explain-how-the-human-body-uses-ae154ad1) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.