Chapter 22 Lecture Notes: Immune System and the Body’s Defense

These flashcards cover key concepts of the immune system, including definitions, functions, and distinctions between immune responses.

What is the primary function of the immune system?

The immune system protects us from infectious agents and harmful substances.

What are the five major categories of infectious agents?

Bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoans, multicellular parasites.

What types of cells are leukocytes, and where are they formed?

Leukocytes are formed in the red bone marrow and include granulocytes, monocytes, and lymphocytes.

What are the main types of granulocytes?

Neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils.

What is the difference between innate immunity and adaptive immunity?

Innate immunity provides non-specific defenses and is present from birth, while adaptive immunity is specific and develops upon exposure to pathogens.

What is the role of cytokines in the immune system?

Cytokines regulate and facilitate immune system activity and serve as communication signals between cells.

What are the two branches of adaptive immunity?

Cell-mediated immunity involving T-lymphocytes and humoral immunity involving B-lymphocytes.

What happens during inflammation?

Inflammation is an immediate, local, nonspecific response characterized by redness, heat, swelling, pain, and potential loss of function.

What are interferons?

Interferons are a group of antimicrobial proteins released from infected cells that help prevent the spread of viruses.

What occurs during the effector response of B-lymphocytes?

B-lymphocytes differentiate into plasma cells that produce antibodies against specific antigens.

How is immunological memory established?

Immunological memory is established after a primary response to an antigen, allowing for a faster and stronger secondary response upon re-exposure.

What are antibodies, and what are their functions?

Antibodies are immunoglobulin proteins that bind to specific antigens to facilitate their elimination.

What are the potential risks of high fevers?

High fevers can lead to changes in metabolic pathways, protein denaturation, possible seizures, and irreversible brain damage.

What is the difference between active and passive immunity?

Active immunity develops after direct exposure to antigens, whereas passive immunity is acquired through the transfer of antibodies from another individual.

What defines an autoimmune disorder?

An autoimmune disorder occurs when the immune system mistakenly reacts to self-antigens as if they were foreign.

What can trigger chronic inflammation?

Chronic inflammation can be triggered by prolonged use injuries, unresolved acute inflammation, or autoimmune disorders.