Innate
Innate refers to the natural, inherent, or essential qualities of an organism. In the context of immunology, innate refers to the immune system's components that are present from birth and provide the first line of defense against pathogens.
Overview[edit | edit source]
The innate immune system is the body's first line of defense against pathogens. It includes physical barriers like the skin and mucous membranes, as well as immune cells such as neutrophils, macrophages, and dendritic cells. These components work together to recognize and eliminate pathogens before they can cause disease.
Components of the Innate Immune System[edit | edit source]
Physical Barriers[edit | edit source]
The skin and mucous membranes are the body's first line of defense against pathogens. They act as physical barriers, preventing pathogens from entering the body.
Immune Cells[edit | edit source]
The innate immune system includes several types of immune cells, including:
- Neutrophils: These are the most abundant type of white blood cell and are among the first to respond to an infection.
- Macrophages: These cells engulf and destroy pathogens and also help to stimulate the adaptive immune response.
- Dendritic cells: These cells present antigens to T cells, helping to initiate the adaptive immune response.
Function of the Innate Immune System[edit | edit source]
The innate immune system is responsible for immediate defense against pathogens. It recognizes and responds to pathogens in a generic way, without the need for prior exposure to the pathogen. This is in contrast to the adaptive immune system, which requires exposure to a pathogen to develop a specific immune response.
Relationship with the Adaptive Immune System[edit | edit source]
While the innate immune system provides immediate defense against pathogens, the adaptive immune system provides a more specific and long-lasting immune response. The innate and adaptive immune systems work together to protect the body from infection. The innate immune system helps to stimulate the adaptive immune response, and the adaptive immune system helps to enhance the innate immune response.
See Also[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
