12_-_Immune_systems

CRISPR-Cas9

A genome-editing tool that uses sequences from bacteria to identify and cut DNA at specific sites, allowing for genetic modifications.

PAM sequence

A short, conserved sequence necessary for the recognition and binding of the CRISPR-Cas9 complex to target DNA.

Genome editing

The process of making specific changes to the DNA of a cell or organism.

Antibody

A protein produced by B cells that can specifically bind to an antigen.

Antigen

A substance that induces an immune response, typically a foreign molecule recognized by the immune system.

IgE antibodies

Type of antibody associated with allergic responses, produced in reaction to allergens.

Phagocytosis

The process by which a cell engulfs particles, such as pathogens or debris, to digest them.

Humoral Immunity

A component of the immune system mediated by antibodies produced by B cells.

MHC (Major Histocompatibility Complex)

A set of molecules displayed on cell surfaces that are involved in immune recognition.

Toll receptors

A class of proteins that play a key role in the innate immune system by recognizing pathogens.

Helper T cell

A type of T cell that assists in activating other immune cells, including B cells and cytotoxic T cells.

Cytotoxic T cell

A type of T cell that can kill cancer cells or cells infected with viruses.

Memory cells

Long-lived immune cells that remember a specific pathogen for a faster response upon re-exposure.

Granules

Small particles within cells that contain enzymes and other substances used in immune responses.

Complement cascade

A series of proteins that work together to opsonize pathogens, enhance inflammation, and lyse bacteria.

Plasma cells

B cells that have differentiated and are responsible for secreting antibodies.

Mutation

A change in the DNA sequence that can lead to variation in characteristics among organisms.

Natural selection

The process where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

NK Cells (Natural Killer Cells)

A type of lymphocyte that plays a role in the innate immune response by targeting and destroying infected or cancerous cells.

Cytokines

Small proteins released by cells that have specific effects on the interactions and communications between cells in the immune response.

Complement

A group of proteins that enhance the ability of antibodies and phagocytic cells to clear pathogens.