Innate and Adaptive Immunity: Key Defences and Examples

What are the two main types of immune systems?

Innate (non-specific) immune system and Adaptive (specific) immune system.

What is the first line of defence in the immune system?

The first line of defence physically stops pathogens from entering the body, examples include skin, mucus, and stomach acid.

What is the second line of defence in the immune system?

The second line of defence involves innate immunity, which includes inflammation and phagocytes that attack pathogens.

What is the third line of defence in the immune system?

The third line of defence is adaptive immunity, which is specific and has memory cells that remember past invaders.

What are the key properties of the innate immune system?

Fast (immediate response), non-specific, and no memory of past infections.

What are the key properties of the adaptive immune system?

Slower initial response, specific to pathogens, and has memory for future infections.

What role do B cells play in the immune system?

B cells produce antibodies that help identify and neutralize pathogens.

What is the function of phagocytes?

Phagocytes are white blood cells that 'eat' pathogens.

What is a pathogen? Give an example.

A pathogen is an organism that causes disease; an example is bacteria.

How does the immune system protect the body?

It disrupts the function of pathogens, physically stops them from entering, and identifies and attacks them if they do.

What is the role of memory cells in the adaptive immune system?

Memory cells remember past invaders and enable a faster response upon re-exposure.

What are some examples of the first line of defence?

Skin, mucus, and enzymes in bodily fluids.

What happens during inflammation in the immune response?

Inflammation causes swelling, redness, and heat to help isolate and eliminate pathogens.