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Disease Defense: Barrier Against Pathogens

Related Article: Learn more about the skin.

Our skin helps protect us from diseases by acting as a barrier.

browse videos in immune system

Disease Defense: Barrier Against Pathogens (1:08)

Our skin helps protect us from diseases by acting as a barrier.

Disease Defense: The Immune System (3:57)

The immune system contains white blood cells, which help destroy pathogens. Lymphocytes manufacture antibodies that help destroy pathogens.

Disease Defense: Immunity and Vaccination (3:06)

Vaccines may protect us from pathogens by causing the body to produce antibodies. Prior to 1955, before a vaccine was developed, many people died from polio.

Disease Defense: Antibiotics (1:33)

Antibiotics are used to treat diseases caused by bacteria. Some bacteria develop resistance to antibiotics.

Disease Defense: Autoimmune Diseases (0:37)

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakes certain cells in the body for pathogens and attacks them.

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