Immunity (medical)
Immunity (medical)[edit | edit source]
Immunity in the context of medicine refers to the body's ability to resist or eliminate potentially harmful foreign materials or abnormal cells. It is a complex system that involves various biological processes and immune cells.
Types of Immunity[edit | edit source]
Immunity can be broadly classified into two types:
Innate Immunity[edit | edit source]
Innate immunity is the first line of defense and is non-specific. It includes physical barriers like the skin and mucous membranes, as well as immune cells such as macrophages and neutrophils.
Adaptive Immunity[edit | edit source]
Adaptive immunity is specific and involves the activation of lymphocytes, including B cells and T cells. This type of immunity develops as a response to exposure to specific antigens.
Components of the Immune System[edit | edit source]
The immune system is composed of various organs, cells, and proteins that work together to protect the body:
- Lymphoid organs such as the thymus, bone marrow, spleen, and lymph nodes.
- White blood cells (leukocytes) including lymphocytes, monocytes, and granulocytes.
- Antibodies produced by B cells that neutralize pathogens.
- Cytokines and chemokines that mediate immune responses.
Immune Response[edit | edit source]
The immune response is the body's reaction to foreign substances. It involves:
- Recognition of pathogens by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs).
- Activation of immune cells and production of cytokines.
- Elimination of pathogens through phagocytosis, cytotoxicity, and antibody production.
Disorders of the Immune System[edit | edit source]
The immune system can malfunction in several ways, leading to disorders such as:
- Autoimmune diseases where the immune system attacks the body's own cells.
- Immunodeficiency disorders where the immune system is underactive.
- Allergies where the immune system overreacts to harmless substances.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
Abul K.,
Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Elsevier, 2020, ISBN 978-0323549431,
Murphy, Kenneth,
Janeway's Immunobiology, Garland Science, 2016, Vol. 9 pp. 1-900,
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