Problem 1: Individuals who smoke have much higher rates of lung infection. Explain which first-line defenses mechanisms may be impaired by smoking, allowing pathogens to more readily enter the lower respiratory tract.
Problem 2: The diagnosis of tuberculosis involves the observation of lung structures called tubercles on an X ray. What immunologic process leads to the formation of tubercles, and what type of immune cells may comprise these lesions?
Problem 3: Provide an explanation in support of or refuting the following statement: "Humans would never develop natural immunity to a novel biological agent created in a laboratory."
Problem 4: Explain how super-antigens, such as toxic shock syndrome toxin produced by Staphylococcus aureus, often lead to the development of life-threatening symptoms in an infected individual.