Adaptive Immunity Comparison Quiz

Study Notes

Role of Antibodies in Immune Protection

Antibodies enhance the immune response by activating the complement system and promoting phagocytosis, leading to pathogen elimination.

Acquired Immunity (Adaptive Immunity)

Acquired immunity is specific and long-lasting, developed through exposure to pathogens or vaccines.
Highly specific; immune cells recognize unique antigens, offering tailored responses to various pathogens.
Involves immunological memory, enabling a rapid response upon re-exposure to previously encountered antigens.

Arms of Adaptive Immunity

Cellular Immunity: Mediated by T lymphocytes (T cells) that attack infected or abnormal cells.
Humoral Immunity: Mediated by B lymphocytes (B cells) that produce antibodies to neutralize pathogens and toxins.

Immune Responses

Primary Response: Initial and slower response when first encountering an antigen, with activation and proliferation of specific immune cells.
Secondary Response: Faster and stronger response upon subsequent exposures, due to memory cells, forming the basis for vaccine-induced immunity.

Types of Acquired Immunity

Active Immunity: Develops from exposure to antigens through infection or vaccination; results in long-term protection with memory cells.
Passive Immunity: Transfer of pre-formed antibodies from another individual, providing immediate but temporary protection.

Impact of Impairments

T Cells: Impaired function leads to compromised cell-mediated immunity, increasing susceptibility to intracellular pathogens and cancer.
B Cells: Impaired function results in decreased antibody production, heightened risk of infections from extracellular pathogens.

Mechanisms of Antibody Protection

Neutralization: Antibodies bind to and inactive harmful components, blocking their action on host cells.
Opsonization: Antibodies mark antigens to enhance phagocytosis by immune cells, aiding in pathogen clearance.
Agglutination: Antibodies cross-link antigens, forming clumps that are easier for phagocytes to engulf.
Precipitation: Antibodies convert soluble antigens into insoluble complexes, facilitating their removal from the body.

Hypersensitivity Reactions

Type I Hypersensitivity: IgE-mediated; involves mast cell activation leading to rapid allergic responses. Treatment includes antihistamines and epinephrine.
Type III Hypersensitivity: Immune complex-mediated; can cause inflammation and tissue damage. Associated with diseases like lupus. Treatment focuses on immunosuppressants.
Type IV Hypersensitivity: T cell-mediated; delayed response characterized by tissue damage from sensitized T cells. Commonly seen in contact dermatitis and graft rejection. Treatment includes topical steroids and avoiding triggers.

Physiological Changes Impacting Immunity

Stress, nutritional deficiencies, immune deficiencies, cancer, and immunosuppression negatively affect immune function, leading to increased vulnerability to infections and diseases.

Description

This quiz explores the role of antibodies in enhancing the immune response and compares the different types of acquired or adaptive immunity. Test your understanding of how the immune system develops and reacts to pathogens and vaccines. Gain insights into the mechanisms that protect our body from infections.