Immunity

Immunity

The ability of an organism to protect itself from pathogens or toxins.

Innate Immunity

Genetic or natural immunity that one is born with, offering lifelong protection and a fast-acting, non-specific response.

Physical Barriers

Skin and eyelashes that protect the body from invasion.

Chemical Barriers

Tears, mucous, and stomach acid that can destroy harmful agents.

Cellular Defenses

Non-specific defenses that identify and neutralize potentially dangerous pathogens.

Hallmarks of Inflammation

Fever, redness, swelling, pain, and loss of function.

Adaptive Immunity

Acquired immunity to a specific pathogen involving clonal expansion of T and B lymphocytes to neutralize antigens.

Humoral Response

Production and secretion of antibodies against specific antigens.

Cell-Mediated Response

Defense against infection by cytotoxic cells, involving the development of B and T cells, memory cells, and plasma cells.