Immunity and Inflammation Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover key concepts in immunity and inflammation based on the provided lecture notes.

Immunity

The ability of an organism to resist infection and disease.

Innate Immunity

Natural or native immunity consisting of physical and biochemical barriers to infection.

Adaptive Immunity

Acquired immunity that is specific to particular pathogens and involves memory against antigens.

Antigens

Substances, often proteins or polysaccharides, that elicit an immune response.

Antibodies

Immunoglobulins produced by B cells that target specific antigens.

Antigen Presenting Cell (APC)

Cells such as macrophages or dendritic cells that present antigens to T cells.

Hematopoiesis

The process of forming blood cellular components.

Neutrophils

Polymorphonuclear leukocytes that are among the first responders in acute inflammation.

Eosinophils

A type of granulocyte involved in inflammation, allergic reactions, and parasitic infections.

Histamine

A vasoactive amine released by mast cells that causes vasodilation and increased vascular permeability.

Cytokines

Proteins produced by immune cells that mediate and regulate immunity and inflammation.

Complement System

A group of proteins that enhances the ability of antibodies and phagocytes to clear pathogens.

Phagocytosis

The process by which certain cells engulf and digest pathogens and debris.

Chronic Inflammation

A prolonged inflammatory response that can lead to tissue destruction and fibrosis.

Acute Inflammation

A rapid immune response that occurs following injury or infection, characterized by redness, heat, swelling, and pain.

Tumor

An abnormal mass of tissue that can be benign (non-invasive) or malignant (invading surrounding tissues).

Malignant Tumor

A cancerous tumor that invades nearby tissues and may spread to other parts of the body.

Benign Tumor

A non-cancerous tumor that does not invade nearby tissues or spread to other parts of the body.

Metastasis

The spread of cancer cells from the original tumor to distant sites in the body.

Angiogenesis

The formation of new blood vessels, often associated with tumor growth.