Immunology Chapter Overview
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following best describes the primary function of the innate immune system?

  • Providing a rapid, broad defense against pathogens. (correct)
  • Creating pathogen-specific antibodies for long-term immunity.
  • Regulating adaptive immune responses after an infection.
  • Generating immunological memory for future infections.
  • What is a key difference between the adaptive and innate immune systems?

  • The adaptive system can create pathogen-specific cells and has immunological memory, while the innate system does not. (correct)
  • The adaptive system responds immediately, while the innate system takes several days.
  • The innate system creates immunological memory, while the adaptive system does not.
  • The adaptive system is broad and non-specific, while the innate system is highly specific.
  • In Experiment 1, the mutated mouse died quickly after virus exposure. What does this result primarily suggest about the mutation's effects?

  • It primarily affects the adaptive immune response, delaying its onset.
  • It impairs the function of the innate immune system. (correct)
  • It is likely due to a failure of the pathogen recognition step.
  • It weakens the body's general ability to fight infections, leading to rapid demise.
  • In Experiment 2, why did the healthy mice survive a lethal dose of the virus after prior exposure, while the mutated mice did not?

    <p>The healthy mice had developed immunological memory of the virus (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a mechanism of the innate immune system?

    <p>Pathogen specific T-cells. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of the innate immune system in relation to the adaptive immune system?

    <p>To alert and activate the adaptive immune system. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which approach provides information about the role of genes in the immune system?

    <p>Studying people with immunodeficiency diseases. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the text provided, what is meant by immunological memory?

    <p>The efficiency of the adaptive response against pathogens, allowing for faster response in future encounters (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In healthy mice, what is the primary function of the adaptive immune response during a second exposure to a virus?

    <p>To rapidly and effectively neutralize the virus, preventing a lethal viral load. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary consequence of severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), as exemplified by David Vetter?

    <p>The inability to fight off even mild infections due to a poorly functioning immune system. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main consequence when a mutation affects the adaptive immune system regarding immunological memory in mice?

    <p>They cannot develop immunological memory and behave as if encountering the virus for the first time upon the second exposure. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following represents the correct order of the immune system's functions, from detection to recurrence prevention?

    <p>Detection, Designation, Recruitment, Elimination, Recurrence Prevention (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the innate immune system primarily contribute to the control of viral infections, despite not creating long-lasting immunological memory?

    <p>By reducing the initial viral load and sending signals to activate the adaptive immune system. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the effect of a mutation affecting the innate immune response?

    <p>Despite the presence of adaptive memory, mice will have a weakened response when exposed to high viral loads a second time. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of secondary messengers, like cytokines, in the immune response?

    <p>To highlight the foreign origin of pathogens, directing immune cells. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a component of the first line of defense of the immune system?

    <p>Cytokines (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which anatomical location do B lymphocytes mature and gain the ability to produce antibodies?

    <p>Bone marrow (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of defensins in the immune system?

    <p>To bind to and kill bacteria or hinder their functions. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of the thymus in the immune system?

    <p>Maturation of T lymphocytes. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary benefit of the microflora that live in symbiosis with our bodies?

    <p>They produce substances that we cannot produce ourselves. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of lymph nodes within the immune system?

    <p>Filtering lymph and facilitating interaction of immune cells with antigens. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes the state of the thymus in a young child compared to an adult?

    <p>It is larger and very active during childhood, decreasing in size and activity by adolescence. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are tight junctions, and where are they found within the bodies first line of defence?

    <p>They are a key component of the epithelium, which is designed to prevent penetration of pathogens. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of lysozymes in the immune system?

    <p>To break down the peptidoglycans in bacterial cell membranes. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the relationship between infection and inflammation?

    <p>Infection is the entry of a pathogen, which then triggers an inflammatory response (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of Leucine-Rich Repeats (LRRs) in Toll-like receptors (TLRs)?

    <p>To bind specific ligands, such as pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    An increase in vascular permeability during the inflammatory response directly leads to which clinical manifestation?

    <p>Swelling (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do TLRs differentiate between host messenger RNA (mRNA) and pathogen single-stranded RNA (ssRNA)?

    <p>By recognizing specific motifs, such as uridine-rich sequences or secondary structures, that are more common in pathogenic RNAs. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of LPS (lipopolysaccharides) in the immune response?

    <p>To trigger an inflammatory response through TLR4 recognition. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a typical function of inflammation?

    <p>Causing long-term tissue damage and loss of function (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of the TIR domain in Toll-like receptors (TLRs)?

    <p>It is a transmembrane part of the receptor that sends signal inside the cell (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following occurs immediately after a lipopeptide binds to TLR1 and TLR2?

    <p>The two TLRs approach each other to form a dimer, bringing their TIR domains closer. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes chronic inflammation from acute inflammation?

    <p>Chronic inflammation occurs when the trigger of inflammation is not eliminated, leading to tissue damage. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best describes the distribution of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) in the body?

    <p>They are present in almost all cells of the body, including those not in the immune system. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is active treatment of inflammation recommended in certain chronic diseases?

    <p>To slow down or prevent the progressive loss of function of the affected tissues. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the initiating event for an infection?

    <p>Bacterial adherence and penetration of the epithelial barrier. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these is the main target of research surrounding inflammation?

    <p>To try and understand the role of inflammation in common chronic diseases (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRRs) in the innate immune system?

    <p>To recognize molecular patterns associated with pathogens or cellular damage. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes Robert Koch's contribution to microbiology?

    <p>He discovered pathogens, formulated postulates, and identified endotoxins. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What immunological molecule did Robert Koch discover and name?

    <p>Endotoxin (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of inflammation in preventing the initial establishment of an infection?

    <p>By decreasing permeability of blood vessels near affected tissue, while allowing the entry of immune cells. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which transcription factor is directly activated via TLR4 in response to LPS?

    <p>NF-κB (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the immediate effect of macrophage activation via TLR4 upon detection of LPS?

    <p>Release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these is NOT a PAMP recognized by Toll-like receptors (TLRs)?

    <p>Double-stranded DNA (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do adapter molecules like MyD88 play in the activation of TLRs?

    <p>They are involved in signal transduction after TLR activation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Immunological Memory

    The ability of the immune system to remember a specific pathogen and mount a more rapid and effective response upon re-exposure.

    Innate Immunity

    A type of immunity that is non-specific and responds rapidly to a wide range of pathogens. It involves cells like macrophages and neutrophils.

    Adaptive Immunity

    A highly specific type of immunity that develops after exposure to a specific pathogen. It involves cells like B and T lymphocytes.

    Antibody

    A protein produced by B lymphocytes that binds to specific antigens, leading to pathogen neutralization or destruction.

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    Antigen

    A substance that triggers an immune response. It can be a protein, carbohydrate, or other molecule found on the surface of pathogens.

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    Bone Marrow

    The site where white blood cells are produced, including B lymphocytes. It's important for antibody production.

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    Thymus

    A small gland located behind the breastbone. It's the site where T lymphocytes mature.

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    Lymph Nodes

    Small, bean-shaped organs that filter lymph and allow immune cells to interact with antigens. Key points of immune response activation.

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    T-cells and B-cells

    Specialized cells that recognize and attack specific pathogens. They are responsible for the adaptive immune response's memory function.

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    Immune Memory

    The ability of the adaptive immune system to remember past encounters with pathogens and mount a faster and stronger response upon reinfection.

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    Immune Response

    The ability of the immune system to defend the body from infection and disease.

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    Immunodeficiency

    A process that weakens the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections.

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    Immune System Study - Method 1

    A study of how the immune system functions by observing an organism's reaction to an introduced pathogen.

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    Immune System Study - Method 2

    A study of how the immune system functions by examining genetic mutations causing immune deficiencies.

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    Inflammation

    The body's response to harmful stimuli, such as pathogens or tissue damage.

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    Infection

    The entry of harmful pathogens into the body, leading to infection.

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    Acute Inflammation

    A short-term response of the immune system to infection or injury, characterized by redness, swelling, pain, and heat. It aims to eliminate the harmful stimulus and promote healing.

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    Chronic Inflammation

    A prolonged inflammatory response that persists for weeks, months, or even years, leading to tissue damage and loss of function.

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    Increased Blood Flow

    Increased blood flow to the affected area, resulting in redness and warmth.

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    Increased Vascular Permeability

    Increased permeability of blood vessels, leading to fluid leakage into the tissues and causing swelling.

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    Tissue Healing

    The process by which the body returns to its normal state after injury or infection, involving tissue repair and restoration of function.

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    Recruitment of Effector Cells

    The recruitment of immune cells to the site of infection or injury, helping combat the pathogen and promote healing.

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    Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID)

    A rare genetic disorder that prevents the immune system from functioning properly, making individuals susceptible to even mild infections.

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    Sterile Bubble Environment

    A sterile environment designed to protect individuals with compromised immune systems from external pathogens, like in the case of "Bubble Boy."

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    Overactive Immune System

    A state where the immune system is excessively active, potentially leading to harmful immune reactions against the body's own tissues.

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    First Line of Immune Defense

    The first line of defense against pathogens, including physical barriers like skin and mucous membranes, and chemical defenses like lysozyme and defensins.

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    Epidermis

    The outermost layer of skin, acting as a physical barrier against pathogens.

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    Epithelial Tight Junctions

    Tight junctions between cells of the epithelium, forming a barrier that prevents pathogens from penetrating.

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    Lysozyme

    An enzyme found in tears and mucous membranes, breaking down the peptidoglycan cell wall of bacteria.

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    Defensins

    Peptides produced by epithelial cells, directly killing or inhibiting bacterial growth.

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    What are PRRs?

    Receptors of the innate immune system that recognize molecular patterns specific to pathogens (PAMPs) or cellular damage (DAMPs). Upon detection, they trigger immune responses such as inflammation, phagocytosis and activation of adaptive cells, playing a key role in defense against infections.

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    What is endotoxin?

    A molecule present in the wall of Gram-negative bacteria (lipopolysaccharides), which remains active after the death of the bacteria and causes severe inflammatory responses.

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    What are LPS?

    Components of the external membrane of Gram-negative bacteria that trigger an inflammatory response in the host.

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    How do macrophages detect LPS?

    A type of receptor on macrophages that recognizes LPS and activates the transcription factor NF-κB.

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    What is NF-κB and what does it do?

    A transcription factor activated by TLR4 that leads to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, triggering an immune response.

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    What are Toll-like receptors (TLRs)?

    These are crucial for innate immunity and detect pathogen-specific motifs (PAMPs), such as lipopolysaccharides (LPS) from Gram-negative bacteria, single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) from viruses, or fungal compounds.

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    How do TLRs function?

    Located on the membrane or inside cells, TLRs activate signalling pathways via adaptors such as MyD88, leading to the expression of inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α) to fight infection.

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    What are inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α?

    A type of inflammatory cytokine released in response to TLR activation, amplifying the immune response to fight infection.

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    What are Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and what are their key features?

    Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are transmembrane proteins that play a crucial role in innate immunity by recognizing pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and activating immune responses. They have two main parts: the extracellular LRR domain which binds to PAMPs and the intracellular TIR domain which transmits signals into the cell.

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    What do TLR7 and TLR8 recognize?

    TLR7 and TLR8 are specialized TLRs that recognize single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) found in pathogens, like viruses, within endosomes. These TLRs distinguish pathogenic ssRNAs from host mRNA based on specific motifs, such as uridine-rich sequences or secondary structures, which are often present in viral RNAs.

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    What are Leucine-Rich Repeats (LRRs) and what is their function?

    Leucine-Rich Repeats (LRRs) are protein motifs that form horseshoe-shaped structures, creating binding sites for specific ligands, like PAMPs. These motifs are found in many proteins, including TLRs, and play a crucial role in pathogen recognition and immune activation.

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    What is a heterodimer and explain the TLR-2 and TLR-1 heterodimer?

    TLR-2 and TLR-1 form a heterodimer, meaning they are composed of two different receptors. Together they create a complex structure that binds to lipopeptide lipid chains, commonly found on bacterial pathogens.

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    Where are TLRs found in the body?

    TLRs are expressed on almost every cell in the body, highlighting their critical role in recognizing pathogens throughout the organism. This emphasizes the importance of innate immunity in protecting the body from a wide range of infections.

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    Study Notes

    Adaptive vs Innate Immunity

    • Innate immunity provides a broad defense, acting immediately or within hours of pathogen entry.

    • It includes physical barriers (skin), blood chemicals, and immune cells attacking foreign cells.

    • Innate immunity alerts and activates the adaptive immune system.

    • Adaptive immunity is a specific response to pathogens.

    • It involves processing and recognizing the pathogen.

    • Adaptive immunity creates specialized immune cells targeting the specific pathogen.

    • The adaptive response includes "memory," making future responses against the pathogen more efficient.

    Phases of the Immune Response

    • Innate immune response:

      • Inflammation, complement activation, phagocytosis (minutes/days).
      • Interactions between antigen-presenting cells and antigen-specific T cells (hours/days).
      • Antigen-specific B-cell activation (hours/days).
    • Adaptive immune response:

      • T-cell and B-cell interactions, formation of effector B cells and memory B cells, antibody production (days/weeks).
      • Effector lymphocyte emigration and pathogen elimination (few days/weeks).
      • Maintenance of memory lymphocytes and antibodies providing long-lasting protection (days to weeks/lifelong).

    Experiments to Study the Immune System

    • Experiment 1: Comparing immune response in healthy mice vs mice with immune system mutations.

      • Virus injection resulted in a few-day illness in healthy mice but death in mutated mice, suggesting the mutation affected the innate immune system.
    • Experiment 2: Injected mice with a sub-lethal dose of virus initially.

      • Healthy mice survived a lethal dose of the same virus later.
      • Mutant mice died upon injection of the lethal dose of virus. This indicates the mutation is likely in the adaptive immune system, crucial for immunological memory.

    Organs Involved in the Immune System

    • Bone marrow: Site of blood cell production including B cells, macrophages, and neutrophils. Also, B-cells mature and make antibodies here.
    • Thymus: Site of T-cell maturation.
    • Lymph nodes: Filter lymph, allowing immune cell interaction with antigens, and a key point for immune response activation.

    Diseases of the Immune System

    • Some diseases, like SCID ("Bubble Boy" syndrome), affect the immune system's ability to fight infection, requiring sterile environments.
    • Also, there are diseases associated with an overly active immune system which can also cause issues.

    Function of The Immune System

    • Detection: Distinguishing self from non-self and dangerous entities.
    • Designation: Identifying pathogen's origin and location.
    • Recruitment: Mobilizing immune cells to the site of infection.
    • Elimination: Removal of pathogens or infected cells.
    • Recurrence Prevention: Establishing long-lasting memory to prevent reinfection.

    First Line of Defence

    • Mechanical: Includes skin, gut epithelium (tight junctions), lungs (mucus movement by cilia), eyes/nose/oral cavity (tears, nasal cilia).
    • Chemical: Includes low pH, fatty acids, enzymes (salvia, tears), and specific proteins (ß-defensins, a-defensins, RegIII).
    • Microbiological: Includes normal microbiota (bacteria in the gut, on skin, etc.) inhibiting pathogens.

    Initiation of Inflammation

    • Clinical signs include increased vascular diameter, blood flow, and permeability causing redness, warmth, and swelling.

    Role of Inflammation

    • Returning tissue to a steady state.
    • Preventing initial infection establishment.
    • Preventing infection spread.
    • Initiating healing.
    • Activating immune cells. Inflammatory response is crucial for proper function of the immune system.

    Stages of Inflammation

    • Initial Barrier: Skin and mucous membranes.
    • Sensing: Sentinel cells detect pathogens/tissue damage, releasing mediators.
    • Vascular Phase: Blood vessels dilate, increasing permeability.
    • Immune Cell Recruitment: Neutrophils and macrophages are recruited.
    • Clearance & Repair: Pathogens are cleared, and tissues are repaired.

    Sensing

    • Pathogens like influenza virus, Helicobacter pylori bacteria, Plasmodium (malaria), fungi (Candida), and worms (Ascaris) are detected and recognized by immune cells and the body's receptors
    • These pathogens activate immune responses.

    Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRRs)

    • Recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) or damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs).
    • These receptors trigger immune responses like inflammation, phagocytosis.
    • Examples include Toll-like receptors (TLRs).

    Toll-like Receptors (TLRs)

    • Crucial for innate immunity, recognizing pathogen-specific motifs.
    • Located on membranes or inside cells, triggering signal pathways & cytokine release.
    • The TLRs recognize specific PAMPs, initiating intracellular signaling.

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