Immune System Flashcards, test questions and answers

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What is Immune System?

The immune system is a complex network of biological processes and organs that works to protect the body from foreign invaders, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It is made up of specialized cells and proteins that work together to identify these potential threats and attack them before they can cause harm. The immune system also plays an important role in identifying cells that have become cancerous or infected with a virus. The first line of defense against invading pathogens are physical barriers like skin and mucus membranes which prevent most organisms from entering the body. If something does manage to get past these barriers then the second line of defense the innate immune system kicks into gear. This is comprised of non-specific responses designed to eliminate anything deemed potentially harmful; this includes white blood cells (such as neutrophils), natural killer cells, macrophages, cytokines, complement proteins, interferons and more. These all work together to detect ongoing infections or foreign substances in order to trigger an inflammatory response so that further damage can be prevented. In addition to this immediate response by the innate immune system there is also a longer-term form of immunity called adaptive immunity which involves specific recognition and destruction of invaders using immunological memory. This part relies on specialized lymphocytes called B-cells or T-cells which are able to recognize certain antigens associated with particular pathogens; once bound they become activated and subsequently launch an attack against any matching antigens it finds within its environment in order ensure their elimination before disease occurs. Overall the complexity of our adaptive immunity gives us immense protection against diseases however if for some reason it fails due to illness or a weakened state then other forms such as vaccinations may be required in order provide additional security from disease causing agents. Therefore we must take care not only understand how our own bodies function but also recognise how best we can support them too.