Professional Documents
Culture Documents
6.3.2 Explain why antibiotics are effective against bacteria but not against
viruses.
Antibiotics are produced by microorganisms to kill or control the growth of other microorganisms by
blocking specific metabolic pathways within the cell. Since bacteria are so different to human cells,
antibiotics can be taken by humans to kill bacteria without harming the human cells. Viruses on the
other hand are different as they do not carry out many metabolic processes themselves. Instead they
rely on a host cell (a human cell) to carry out these processes for them. Therefore viruses cannot be
treated with antibiotics as it is impossible to harm the virus without harming the human cells.
Summary:
6.3.3 Outline the role of skin and mucous membranes in defence against
pathogens.
The skin forms a physical barrier that prevents pathogens from entering the body as the outer layer is
very tough. In addition the skin contains sebaceous glands which secret lactic acid and fatty acids
which creates an acidic environment on the surface of the skin preventing the growth of pathogens.
Mucous membranes form another type of barrier against pathogens. Mucous membranes are soft and
moist areas of skin found in the trachea, nose, vagina and urethra. These membranes are not strong
enough to create a physical barrier but they do have mucus which contain lysozyme enzymes that
digest the phagocytes. Also, the mucus can be sticky such as in the trachea, and trap the pathogens
which are then expelled up the trachea and out of the body by muscles within the trachea.
Summary:
Skin:
Mucous membranes:
Transmission:
1. Through vaginal and anal intercourse as well as oral sex if cuts or tears are present.
2. Through hypodermic needles shared by drug users.
3. Through placenta from mother to child.
4. Through cuts during child birth or in milk during breast feeding.
5. Through transfused blood.
6. Through blood factors such as Factor VIII used to treat hemophiliacs.
Social Implications: