Directions for the Student:
There are 4 essay questions. Please be sure to complete all of them with thorough substantive responses. Citations are required for all responses. There is no time limit.
Questions
Individuals who smoke have much higher rates of lung infection. Explain which first-line defenses mechanisms may be impaired by smoking, allowing pathogens to more readily enter the lower respiratory tract.
The diagnosis of tuberculosis involves the observation of lung structures called tubercles on an X-ray. What immunologic process leads to the formation of tubercles, and what type of immune cells may comprise these lesions?
Provide an explanation in support of or refuting the following statement: “Humans would never develop natural immunity to a novel biological agent created in a laboratory.”
Explain how super-antigens, such as toxic shock syndrome toxin produced by Straphylococcus aureus, often lead to the development of life-threatening symptoms in an infected individual.
Answers
Question 1
The defense against pathogens in the respiratory tract depends on a series of mechanisms. In the central airway, the epithelial lining features a ciliated, mucus-covered layer that is meant to steer particles and microorganisms away (Tortora, Funke, & Case, 2018). It happens through mucociliary clearance. This epithelial barrier is the first line of defense. Within the epithelial cells, the mucosal T-cells are present. They feature a specific defense against the infectious agents seeking to penetrate the barrier. Further inside the tissue are the macrophages, neutrophils, and T-cells that offer both innate and adaptive immune responses to help clear infections (Sussman, Golberstein, & Polosa, 2021). The lower respiratory tract features…. To access full answers (100% correct), use the purchase button below.