The immune system defends the body against foreign entities through two mains systems: innate and adaptive immunity. Innate immunity offers immediate, non-specific responses to a broad range of pathogens, utilizing physical barriers and cells such as macrophages. Adaptive immunity, however, provides a more targeted defense, retaining memory of past encounters to enhance response upon re-exposure.
Tag: Immunology
Distinguishing Self from Non-Self
The immune system must distinguish between 'self' and 'non-self' to avoid autoimmune diseases, develop immune tolerance, preserve healthy tissues, and prevent chronic inflammation. When this distinction fails, the body may mistakenly attack its own cells, leading to disorders like rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 diabetes, and conditions such as atherosclerosis and neurodegenerative diseases.
Life and Biology 