Immunological Response in Inflammation and Injury

A type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in both innate and adaptive immunity.

Innate Immunity:

• They engulf and destroy pathogens (phagocytosis).
• Release inflammatory mediators like cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-1) to recruit other immune cells.

Adaptive Immunity:

• Present antigens to T cells, initiating an adaptive immune response.

Specialized cells in the immune system responsible for recognizing and eliminating specific pathogens. They are key players in adaptive immunity.

T lymphocytes (T cells):

• Attack infected cells or cancer cells.
• Help activate other immune cells.

B lymphocytes (B cells):

• Produce antibodies that neutralize pathogens.

Cells in the nervous system that release chemical messengers called neurotransmitters. They can contribute to inflammation by releasing these neurotransmitters, which can affect vascular permeability and immune cell activity.

Small cell fragments involved in blood clotting. They also play a role in inflammation by releasing various mediators, including platelet activating factor (PAF) and thromboxane A.

An inflammatory mediator released by various cells, including mast cells, basophils, and platelets. It causes vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, smooth muscle contraction, and contributes to allergic reactions.

A group of inflammatory mediators derived from arachidonic acid. They have diverse effects, including vasodilation, bronchoconstriction, pain, and fever.

Lipid mediators derived from arachidonic acid. They play a role in inflammation, particularly allergic reactions and asthma.

A potent inflammatory mediator released by various cells. It causes vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, and plays a role in allergic reactions, asthma, and inflammation.

A gas molecule that plays a role in inflammation. It relaxes blood vessels, contributing to vasodilation and increased blood flow.

A potent inflammatory mediator that causes pain, increased vascular permeability, and contributes to inflammation.

Inflammation is a vital bodily process aimed at protecting tissues from injury or infection. It involves a coordinated response to remove harmful substances, repair damage, and restore tissue function.

Inflammation is a process involving a complex interplay of cells, mediators, and signaling pathways. Its goal is to eliminate the source of injury or infection and promote healing.

Inflammation can be broadly categorized into acute and chronic forms. Acute inflammation is usually short-lived, characterized by redness, swelling, pain, and heat, and it resolves quickly after the initial insult. Chronic inflammation, on the other hand, persists for extended periods, often leading to tissue damage and dysfunction.

Inflammation can be beneficial or detrimental. When it's controlled, it's a powerful tool for healing. But when inflammation becomes uncontrolled or prolonged, it can lead to tissue damage, chronic diseases, and even death.

Inflammatory mediators are chemical messengers that regulate inflammatory responses. They include cytokines, chemokines, prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and others. These mediators are released by cells during inflammation and communicate with other cells, coordinating the inflammatory response.

The innate immune system is the body's first line of defense against pathogens. It includes cells like neutrophils, macrophages, and natural killer (NK) cells, which recognize and eliminate pathogens. This system provides rapid, but often non-specific protection.

The adaptive immune system is a more specific and targeted arm of the immune system. It includes lymphocytes, like T cells and B cells, which recognize specific antigens and mount tailored immune responses. This system provides long-lasting protection against specific pathogens.

Leukocytes, also known as white blood cells, are key players in the inflammatory response. They are specialized cells that migrate to the site of inflammation to engulf pathogens, activate other immune cells, and release cytokines. Different types of leukocytes have distinct roles in inflammation.

The vascular system is the network of blood vessels that carries blood throughout the body. During inflammation, changes in blood flow and vascular permeability occur, allowing immune cells and mediators to reach the site of inflammation effectively.

The body is a complex system that relies on intricate networks and cascades to regulate inflammation. These pathways involve interactions between multiple cells, mediators, and receptors, creating a robust, responsive, and adaptable system.