Immunology: White Blood Cells, Cytokines, and Autoimmune Disorders

Neutrophils

First responders and most abundant white blood cells that perform phagocytosis and strongly target bacteria.

Monocytes

Circulate and become macrophages when activated; macrophages are known as 'big eaters' and perform phagocytosis.

Antigen-presenting cells (APCs)

Cells that wear invader proteins to present antigens to T cells.

Eosinophils

Elevated in cases of parasites and help with inflammation.

Basophils

Release histamine, which is involved in allergies and inflammation.

Cytokines

Signals for cell movement, including interferons, interleukins, prostaglandins, histamine, and bradykinin.

Perforins

Punch holes in target

Granzymes

Trigger apoptosis

P - Precipitation

Bind free antigens

L - Lysis

Destroy pathogen membranes

A - Agglutination

Clump pathogens

N - Neutralization

Block pathogen movement

Autoimmune Disorders

Immune system fails to recognize self - T-cells and B-cells attack own tissues - Causes chronic inflammation

Prostaglandins

Released by Dead Cells  || NSAIDs

Histamine

Released by Mast Cells 

Bradykinins

Released by All Damaged Cells

Humoral Response

• “B-Cells”

• Come from Bones/Bone marrow

• Produce Antibodies/Immunoglobulins

Cell Mediated Response

• “T-Cells”

• Come from Thymus

• Target infected cells*

• Destroy pathogens - Apoptosis