10HS_Homework_1_Term 2_2018-2019_Answer Key
DUE DATE: SUNDAY 17TH FEBRUARY
Read pg. 924-927 in Holt Biology then answer the following questions.
1. Define the following terms:
a. Allergy a physical response to an antigen, which can be a common substance that produces little or no
response in the general population
b. Allergen a substance that causes allergic reaction – often a common substance that produces little or no
response in the general population
c. Autoimmune disease a disease in which the immune system attacks the organism’s own cells
2. What causes an allergic response?
An allergen causes mast cells to produce histamine which activates the immune response. This can cause an
inflammatory reaction
3. What is an autoimmune disorder?
An autoimmune disorder is a disease where the immune system attacks the organism’s own cells as if they were
pathogens. It develops an immune response to “self-antigens”.
4. Explain how Type I diabetes is caused
Type I diabetes is caused when the immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This leads
to high blood sugar as insulin is not available to attach to glucose (sugars) to allow them to enter the body’s cells.
5. Describe the “hygiene hypothesis”
The hygiene hypothesis states that cleaner conditions in developed countries lead to higher rates of allergies,
and autoimmune disorders.
Use your notes and https://acaai.org/allergies/types to complete the following table:
Type of allergy
Example allergens
Possible symptoms
Skin
Latex, adhesives, poison ivy, cheap
jewelry, cosmetics
Rash, itching, blisters, burning
sensation
Food
Eggs, milk, peanuts, shellfish,
wheat, soy
Vomiting, tight throat, swelling
tongue, dizziness, shortness of
breath, hives
Insect Sting
Hay fever (allergic
rhinitis)
Bees, wasps, honeybees, hornets
Pain, redness, swelling, anaphylaxis,
itching, hives
Pollens, mold spores, dust mites,
pet hair, cigarette smoke
Runny nose, itchy eyes, sneezing,
stuffy nose, fatigue