You have previously learnt that pathogens are microorganisms such as viruses and bacteria that cause infectious diseases in animals and plants. This topic focuses on what we can do to avoid diseases. We can limit the risk of dangerous diseases by the use of vaccinations. You will be introduced to the role of antibiotics, and the dangers associated with over use of these will be further explained in B15 - Genetics. You will study about the processes involved in the development of new drugs, and how this can take a lot of time. The race is now on to develop a new set of antibiotics.

Specification links:

• Set 1:  Sections 4.3.1.7- 4.3.2.2

• Set 2&3:   Sections 4.3.1.7- 4.3.1.9

Task 1b: listen to the podcast to get an overview of this unit

Task 2b: Make notes that:

• Define the following; antigen, antibody, pathogen, immunity.

• Describe how a vaccination works.

• Draw the process on slide 16 that shows the different stages of a vaccine.

• Define herd immunity and explain how it can help prevent the spread of disease.

Hang on, can't vaccines cause dangerous side effects?

• Spoiler alert: Not really and not vacinating is much more dangerous - watch the video for more information.

Task 3b: Make notes that:

• Describe the contribution of Florey and Chain.

• Describe a limitation of penicillin.

• Describe how antibiotics work

• Define antibiotic efficacy.

• Compare antibiotics and painkillers

Task 3d: Complete the progress quiz.

Task 4b: Make notes that:

• Define the following; effective, safe, stable.

• Name the steps involved in developing a new drug.

• Explain the purpose of preclinical testing.

• List what the drugs are tested on during preclinical testing.

• Explain the reason we give drugs to healthy volunteers.

• Explain the need for double blind trials.

• Define placebo.

Task 7: Complete the quiz for your set to make sure you understand this unit.