Question

In Zach’s immune response, positive feedback amplifies white blood cell (WBC) production, drawing in more and more immune cells to fight the bacteria. This continues until the threat of infection is eliminated. Once the bacteria are defeated, negative feedback signals begin to reduce the activity to avoid unnecessary swelling and tissue damage.
Which outcomes are most likely due to the negative feedback stage? (Select all that apply.)
Responses

A. Increased bacterial reproduction to dangerous levels.
A. Increased bacterial reproduction to dangerous levels.

B. Reduction in WBC production
B. Reduction in WBC production

C. Prevention of further tissue injury
C. Prevention of further tissue injury

D. Continuous amplification of inflammation
D. Continuous amplification of inflammation

E. Restoration of optimal immune activity

Answer 1

Correct answers: B, C, E.

- B (Reduction in WBC production): Yes — negative feedback downregulates immune cell production once the threat is cleared.
- C (Prevention of further tissue injury): Yes — reducing inflammation prevents excessive swelling and damage.
- E (Restoration of optimal immune activity): Yes — negative feedback returns the system toward homeostasis.

A (Increased bacterial reproduction) and D (Continuous amplification of inflammation) describe adverse effects or positive-feedback behavior and are not outcomes of the negative-feedback stage.