Introduction to the Immune System Flashcards
What are the two interconnected systems of the immune system?
The innate immune system and the adaptive immune system.
What does the innate immune system primarily do?
It acts as the body’s rapid-response team, providing immediate, non-specific defense against invaders.
What are the physical and chemical barriers in the innate immune system?
Skin, mucous membranes, enzymes in saliva, tears, sweat, and stomach acid.
What cells are involved in the innate immune system’s cellular defenses?
Phagocytes (e.g., macrophages and neutrophils) and Natural Killer (NK) cells.
What is the role of the complement system in innate immunity?
It is a group of proteins that helps destroy pathogens by puncturing microbial cell walls or tagging pathogens for immune cell destruction.
What distinguishes the adaptive immune system from the innate immune system?
The adaptive immune system recognizes specific pathogens, remembers them, and provides long-term, robust protection.
What are the roles of B cells and antibodies in the adaptive immune system?
B cells produce antibodies that bind to specific antigens, neutralizing pathogens or marking them for destruction.
What is the function of Helper T cells in adaptive immunity?
Helper T cells coordinate the immune response by activating other immune cells.
What is the role of Cytotoxic T cells in the adaptive immune system?
Cytotoxic T cells directly destroy infected or cancerous cells.
What are the four types of hypersensitivity?
Type I (Quick Reaction), Type II (Friendly Fire), Type III (Clutter Problems), and Type IV (The Slow Burn).
What is Type I hypersensitivity and give examples.
An allergy response, triggered by allergens like pollen or peanuts. Examples include hay fever, hives, asthma, and anaphylaxis.
What is Type II hypersensitivity and provide an example.
The immune system attacks its own cells due to mistaken identity. Example: Blood transfusion reactions.
What is Type III hypersensitivity and provide an example.
Immune complexes get stuck in tissues, causing inflammation. Example: Rheumatoid arthritis.
What is Type IV hypersensitivity and provide an example.
A slow immune response mediated by T cells, leading to tissue damage. Example: Poison ivy rash.
What are some ways to maintain a healthy immune system?
Stay informed about allergies, eat healthily, stay active, reduce stress, and vaccinate wisely.
