# Explain how white blood cells protect the body after a pathogen enters the bloodstream for the first time.

> Eduqas GCSE Biology — 2.6.2 The immune system · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. White blood cells detect/recognise antigens on the surface of the pathogen
2. White blood cells produce antibodies specific/complementary to the antigens
3. Antibodies bind to/attach to the antigens, destroying/neutralising/clumping the pathogens
4. White blood cells can also engulf/ingest and digest pathogens (phagocytosis)

## Key terms

- [pathogen](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/pathogen)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas GCSE 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-white-blood-cells-protect-52f3d8f4) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.