Page:Bacteria, why do they make me sick?.pdf/46

This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
46
Bacteria, why do they make me sick?

Glossary

Antibody: molecules produced by B lymphocytes. The antibodies, (Ab) have a common basic structure. However, the antigen-binding site is specific to each of them.

Antigen: any molecule able to induce the production of specific antibodies and the activation of B lymphocytes.

B lymphocytes: are a type of lymphocytes responsible for creating or producing antibodies for a specific antigen. They can also work as antigen-presenting cells, and, eventually, they can transform into memory B Cells when activated by the interaction with an antigen.

Bacteriocins: proteins with antibacterial activity.

Complement system: This system is part of the innate immune system and is a nonspecific defense against pathogenic microorganisms. It consists of proteins called the complement. In the case of inflammatory reactions, the complements travel to the infected tissue and here, they work as a sign to attract immune system cells. They adhere to harmful bacteria to mark them as a target or they form pores in the membranes of the pathogens and cause lysis.