5 Questions
What is the primary function of the immune system?
To recognize, eliminate, and destroy foreign cells
What is the main difference between the innate immune system and the adaptive immune system?
The innate immune system is non-specific, while the adaptive immune system is specific
What is the purpose of the adaptive immune system?
To change in character following an infection to better fight the infection
What is produced by the adaptive immune system to fight a specific invasion?
Antibodies
When is the innate immune system present?
Present at birth
Study Notes
Immunology and the Immune System
- Immunology is the study of the immune system that protects us from foreign organisms and agents.
- The immune system has three main functions: recognising, eliminating, and destroying foreign cells, as well as remembering them.
Components of the Immune System
- The immune system consists of two main components: the innate immune system and the adaptive immune system.
Innate Immune System
- The innate immune system is present from birth and is non-specific, meaning it recognises anything that is "not self".
- It provides immediate defense against infections and is the first line of defense.
Adaptive Immune System
- The adaptive immune system changes in character following an infection to make it more capable of fighting the infection.
- It is specific, meaning a specific cell or agent of the immune system (e.g. an antibody) is produced to fight a specific invasion.
- The adaptive immune system allows for long-term immunity to specific pathogens.
Learn about the immune system, its functions, and its components, including the innate and adaptive immune systems.
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