Chapter 16: Innate Immunity: Non-Specific Defenses of The Host

This set of flashcards covers key terms and concepts related to innate immunity and non-specific defenses of the host, including types of immunity, defense mechanisms, and responses to pathogens.

Immunity

The ability to fight off pathogens and prevent disease.

Innate Immunity

Non-specific immunity that an individual is born with; does not discriminate among pathogens.

Host Resistance

The state of having immunity to fight off infections.

Host Susceptibility

The state of lacking immunity, making one vulnerable to infections.

Phagocytosis

The process of ingestion (engulfing) of microbes or other substances by a phagocyte.

Inflammation

A localized response to injury or infection that serves to eliminate pathogens and initiate healing.

Antimicrobial Substances

Substances that inhibit the growth or kill pathogens.

Chemical Barriers

Substances such as pH, lysozymes, and gastric juices on the body's surfaces that prevent infection.

Normal Microbiota

Non-pathogenic commensal microbes that coexist with the host, providing benefits without causing harm.

Competitive Exclusion

The principle where normal microbiota compete with pathogens to limit their growth.

Humoral Immunity

A type of adaptive immunity involving antibodies produced by B cells.

Cell Mediated Immunity

A type of adaptive immunity involving T cells that directly attack infected or cancerous cells.