WEEK 8 Lec- 2.1 Respiratory tract local immunity

Respiratory Tract

The part of the anatomy involved in the process of respiration, divided into the upper respiratory tract, respiratory airways, and lungs.

Upper Respiratory Tract

Includes the nose, nasal passages, paranasal sinuses, and throat (pharynx).

Respiratory Airways

Consist of the voice box (larynx), trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles.

Lungs

Structure containing respiratory bronchioles, alveolar ducts, alveolar sacs, and alveoli.

Viral Respiratory Tract Infections

Common infections primarily affecting the respiratory tract, often categorized into upper and lower respiratory tract infections.

Upper Respiratory Tract Infections

The most common viral infections worldwide, generally mild and irritating.

Lower Respiratory Tract Infections

More dangerous viral infections that can be difficult to treat.

Goblet Cells

Cells that secrete mucin, which dissolves in water to form mucus.

Mucus

A substance produced by goblet cells that 'washes' away invading pathogens.

Ciliated Cells

Cells that trap invading pathogens in the respiratory tract.

Secretory IgA

An Immunoglobulin A that serves as the first line of defense at epithelial surfaces (mucosal immunity).

Mucosal Immunity

The immune response that occurs at mucosal surfaces, such as the respiratory tract.

Virus Neutralization and Aggregation

The process by which IgA promotes the clearance of viruses through opsonization and complement activation.

Opsonization

The process by which pathogens are marked for destruction by immune cells.

Complement Activation

A part of the immune response where proteins help clear pathogens from an organism.

Epithelial Cells

Cells that line the surfaces of the respiratory tract and play a role in immunity.

Pharyngitis

Inflammation of the throat, often viral in origin.

Bronchitis

Inflammation of the bronchi, often due to viral infections.

Bronchiolitis

Viral infection of the small airways in the lungs.

Alveolar Macrophage

Immune cells located in the alveoli that help in phagocytosing pathogens.

Rhinitis

Irritation and inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nose, often caused by viruses.