Final Exam

Innate Immunity

Non-specific initial response of the immune system.

Phagocytosis

The process by which phagocytes engulf and destroy pathogens.

Primary Response

The immune response during first exposure to an antigen, characterized by a slow and weaker response.

Secondary Response

The immune response upon repeat exposure to the same antigen, which is faster and stronger due to memory cells.

Cytokines

Chemical messengers released by innate immune cells indicating infection and recruiting other immune cells.

Chemokines

Molecules that draw immune cells to the exact location of an infection.

Complement System

A set of proteins that cause cell lysis, inflammation, and opsonization during immune responses.

Neutrophils

Phagocytic cells that make up 55-70% of white blood cells and protect skin and mucous membranes.

Macrophages

Phagocytic cells that destroy pathogens and present antigens to trigger adaptive immunity.

Toll-like receptors (TLR)

Receptors that recognize antigens from pathogens in a non-specific manner, aiding in immune response.

Opsonization

The process of coating pathogens with opsonins to facilitate phagocytosis.

Humoral Immunity

The aspect of adaptive immunity mediated by B cells and antibodies.

Cellular Immunity

The aspect of adaptive immunity mediated by T cells.

Clonal Selection

The process where a specific lymphocyte is activated and clones itself to fight a specific pathogen.

Antigen Presenting Cells

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

IgG

The most abundant antibody, important for opsonization and can cross the placenta.

IgA

An antibody found in colostrum that protects against new bacteria.

IgM

The first antibody produced in response to an infection.

IgE

An antibody involved in allergic responses and activation of mast cells.

MHC Class I

Molecules that present antigens on infected cells to CD8 T cells.

MHC Class II

Molecules that present antigens on antigen-presenting cells to CD4 T cells.

HIV

A retrovirus that attacks the immune system, specifically CD4 T cells.

Antivirals

Drugs that target various stages of the viral life cycle to inhibit virus replication.

Memory Cells

Long-lived cells that remain after an infection and provide faster responses upon re-exposure to the same pathogen.

Interferons

Proteins released by infected cells to warn neighboring cells of viral infection.

Natural Killer Cells

Cells that induce programmed cell death in infected cells.

Basophils

Cells that release histamine and contribute to inflammation during allergic reactions.

Eosinophils

Cells that defend against parasites.