The Role of Normal Flora in the Body

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The role of microbes in human health and disease Key terms: Specific | It’s only matched by one other thing | Neutrophils | They are quick and respond to inflammation. They engulf and digest bacterial pathogens | Macrophages | They engulf and digest ‘debris’ | Complement proteins | They make pathogen membranes porous | Lymphocytes | Receptor binding sites | Susceptibility | Lack of resistance or vulnerability to disease | Resistance | The ability to ward off disease through the various defence mechanisms | Eosinophils | A white blood cell containing granules that are readily stained by eosin | Phagocytes | A type of cell within the body capable of engulfing and absorbing bacteria and other small cells and particles | Basophil | A basophilic white blood cell | Normal flora is the bacteria which are found on our body on a semi- permanent basis without causing disease. Normal flora is especially important in the large intestine. They are also found in the nose, mouth, on skin and down the throat. The roles of normal flora are to produce compounds which kill other bacteria. It also lowers the pH level in our body so that other bacteria can’t grow. It helps to produce vitamins we are otherwise unable to produce like vitamin B12. It aids in boosting our immune system and helps us to digest food. Gut flora is the normal bacteria that is found mainly in our intestines as well as our stomach. It is vital in stimulating, training and regulating our body. Not only are there species of bacteria but also strains of archaea and fungi. Gut flora’s primary role is to ferment otherwise indigestible carbohydrates and extracting energy. It also aids in the absorption of nutrients and production of vitamins. In a study that found that babies born from a caesarean section have decreased levels of immune activity compared to babies born naturally. The results of

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