Class Notes: Immunity
Definition of Immunity
Immunity is the body’s ability to resist harmful microorganisms, toxins, and foreign
substances. It protects the body from infections, diseases, and other biological invasions.
Types of Immunity
- **Innate Immunity (Non-Specific Immunity):**
- Present from birth.
- Provides a quick response to a broad range of pathogens.
- Includes barriers like skin, mucous membranes, and general responses like inflammation
and fever.
- **Adaptive Immunity (Specific Immunity):**
- Develops over time and targets specific pathogens.
- Involves memory cells that provide long-lasting protection.
- Divided into two main types:
- **Humoral Immunity** (B cells produce antibodies to target pathogens in bodily fluids).
- **Cell-Mediated Immunity** (T cells directly attack infected or abnormal cells).
Cells of the Immune System
- **White Blood Cells (Leukocytes):** Essential for defending the body.
- **Phagocytes** (e.g., macrophages and neutrophils): Engulf and digest foreign invaders.
- **Lymphocytes:** Key players in adaptive immunity.
- **B cells:** Produce antibodies.
- **T cells:** Assist in killing infected cells and regulating immune responses.
Antibodies
- Also known as immunoglobulins.
- Produced by B cells in response to specific antigens.
- Neutralize pathogens by binding to them, making it easier for phagocytes to consume
them.
Stages of Immune Response
- **Recognition:** The immune system detects foreign invaders.
- **Activation:** Lymphocytes are activated to respond.
- **Response:** Antibodies or cells attack and neutralize the pathogen.
- **Memory:** Some cells retain the memory of the pathogen for faster responses in the
future.
Immunization
- A process that stimulates the immune system to produce memory cells for specific
pathogens.
- **Vaccines** contain dead or weakened pathogens or antigens to develop immunity
without causing disease.
Autoimmunity and Immune Disorders
- **Autoimmune Diseases:** Conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the
body’s own cells (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes).
- **Immunodeficiency Disorders:** Weakened or absent immune responses (e.g., AIDS).
Factors Affecting Immunity
- **Genetics:** Determines susceptibility to certain immune responses.
- **Nutrition:** Essential nutrients support immune function.
- **Lifestyle:** Exercise, sleep, and stress levels affect immunity.
- **Vaccinations:** Help boost immunity against specific diseases.
Summary
Immunity is a critical biological system that protects us from infections. It consists of innate
and adaptive responses involving various cells and processes that work together to identify,
neutralize, and remember pathogens. Immunization enhances this natural defense, and a
healthy lifestyle supports optimal immune function.