Immunology 1- Innate vs acquired Flashcards
What does the immune system do?
works to identify and eliminate microorganisms and other harmful substances and cancers. It provides protection from pathogens and rejects donor tissues.
Describe unbalanced immune systems.
Can be overactive- autoimmunity and allergies
Can be underachieve- recurrent infections or cancer
What are three ways of preventing or treating human diseases?
- Immunisation
- Anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive drugs
- Cancer immunotherapy and genetic engineering
What are examples of problems in the immune system?
- HIV (lack of T cells)
- autoimmune diseases
- primary immunodeficiencies
What are the two branches of the immune system?
Innate and acquired.
Describe the innate immune system.
- Natural/physical barriers
- non-specific
- have this from birth
- a rapid response
- has soluble factors including cytokines, inflammatory mediators and proteins
- have immune cells including macrophages, mast cells, neutrophils and NK cells
Describe the acquired immune system.
- a slow response
- highly specific
- developed over time
- generates a unique response for each pathogen
- has immune cells- T and B cells
What are constitutive barriers?
The first line of defence of the innate immune response. Every point of entry for pathogens have constitutive barriers.
What are three physical/ chemical constitutive barriers?
Skin, mucus and commensal bacteria.
How does skin act as a constitutive barrier?
It is composed of tightly packed cells and sheds often. It has low pH and oxygen tension and also has specialised sebaceous glands which secrete hydrophobic oils and other chemicals e.g. antimicrobial peptides and lysozymes.
How does mucous act as a constitutive barrier?
It lines all body cavities that come into contact with the environment. It traps bacteria then it is removed by ciliated cells
How do commensal bacteria act as a constitutive barrier?
It is friendly bacteria which has a symbiotic relationship with the host. It can produce antimicrobial chemicals.
What are pathogen associated molecule patterns (PAMPS)?
Signature molecules expressed on pathogens.
What are Pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs)?
Partner receptors expressed on the cell surface or in the cytosol of innate immune cells. These bind to PAMPS
