The Innate Immune Response

Flashcards to help understand key concepts of the innate immune response.

Innate Immune Response

The first line of defense in the immune system that responds to pathogens in a generic way.

Pathogen

An organism or agent that causes disease.

First line of defense

Physical and chemical barriers, such as skin and mucous membranes, that prevent entry of pathogens.

Macrophages

Large white blood cells that are part of the innate immune response and engulf pathogens.

Inflammation

A local response to injury or infection that results in redness, heat, swelling, and pain.

Cytokines

Signaling proteins released by cells that affect the behavior of other cells during immune responses.

Complement system

A group of proteins that aids in the elimination of pathogens through opsonization and lysis.

Natural Killer Cells

A type of lymphocyte that plays a role in the innate immune response by destroying infected or cancerous cells.