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11.1 Antibody production and vaccination

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Description

Nature of science:
Consider ethical implications of research—Jenner tested his vaccine for smallpox on a child. (4.5)
Understandings:
  • Every organism has unique molecules on the surface of its cells.
  • Pathogens can be species-specific although others can cross species barriers.
  • B lymphocytes are activated by T lymphocytes in mammals.
  • Activated B cells multiply to form clones of plasma cells and memory cells.
  • Plasma cells secrete antibodies.
  • Antibodies aid the destruction of pathogens.
  • White cells release histamine in response to allergens.
  • Histamines cause allergic symptoms.
  • Immunity depends upon the persistence of memory cells.
  • Vaccines contain antigens that trigger immunity but do not cause the disease.
  • Fusion of a tumour cell with an antibody-producing plasma cell creates a hybridoma cell.
  • Monoclonal antibodies are produced by hybridoma cells.
Applications and skills:
  • Application: Smallpox was the first infectious disease of humans to have been eradicated by vaccination.
  • Application: Monoclonal antibodies to HCG are used in pregnancy test kits.
  • Application: Antigens on the surface of red blood cells stimulate antibody production in a person with a different blood group.
  • Skill: Analysis of epidemiological data related to vaccination programmes.
Guidance:
  • Limit the immune response to mammals.
 International-mindedness:
  • The World Health Organization initiated the campaign for the global eradication of smallpox in 1967. The campaign was deemed a success in 1977, only 10 years later.
Utilization:
  • Human vaccines are often produced using the immune responses of other animals.
Syllabus and cross-curricular links:
Biology
Topic 6.3 Defence against infectious disease
Topic 11.4 Sexual reproduction
Geography
Part 2F: The geography of food and health

Aims:
  • Aim 7: Use of databases to analyse epidemiological data.

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