Question 5 (~150 words)Discuss the role of immune cells, such as T cells, in the body's defense mechanisms.Question 6 (~150 words)Explain the role of immune cells in attacking the myelin sheath and its impact on CNS function

Question 5:

Immune cells, including T cells, play a crucial role in the body's defense mechanisms. They are part of the adaptive immune system, which is responsible for specifically recognizing and eliminating pathogens. T cells are produced in the bone marrow and mature in the thymus, hence the name 'T' cells. They are activated when a foreign substance, known as an antigen, is detected in the body. There are two main types of T cells: Helper T cells and Killer T cells. Helper T cells stimulate B cells to produce antibodies, which can neutralize pathogens. Killer T cells, on the other hand, can directly destroy infected cells. Thus, T cells are essential for coordinating immune responses and killing infected cells.

Question 6:

In some autoimmune diseases, such as Multiple Sclerosis (MS), immune cells mistakenly attack the myelin sheath, a protective layer that covers nerve fibers in the Central Nervous System (CNS). This results in communication problems between the brain and the rest of the body. When the myelin sheath is damaged, nerve impulses slow down or stop, leading to the symptoms of MS, which can include fatigue, difficulty walking, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness and spasms, poor balance and coordination, and problems with speech and swallowing. Therefore, the role of immune cells in attacking the myelin sheath has a significant impact on CNS function.