First line of defence flashcards

What is the main difference between the innate and adaptive immune responses?

Innate immune response is non-specific and does not change over time, while adaptive immune response is specific and remembers past interactions.

Define the term 'allergen'.

An allergen is any harmless entity that generates an immune response and can potentially cause harm to the body.

What is a pathogen?

A pathogen is an invading organism that can potentially cause harm to the body and generate an immune response.

What is an immunogen?

An immunogen is anything that generates an immune response, including both allergens and pathogens.

Define 'antigen'.

An antigen is the specific component of the immunogen that elicits the immune response.

What is an epitope?

An epitope is the explicit amino acid sequence that triggers an immune response, often where antibodies bind.

What is a hapten?

A hapten is a potential immunogen that can evoke an immune response but is not strong enough to do so by itself.

What does an adjuvant do?

An adjuvant non-specifically increases the immune response and can assist immunogens.

Define immunological redundancy.

Immunological redundancy refers to the immune system's ability to respond in multiple ways to the same pathogen.

What does 'memory' refer to in the immune system?

Memory refers to the immune system's ability to remember previous encounters with pathogens and improve response upon re-exposure.

What are the four components of the first line of defence?

The four components are physical and mucosal barriers, mechanical barriers, commensal microbiota, and chemical barriers.

What role does skin play in the immune system?

Skin acts as a tough anatomical barrier to the external environment, preventing invading organisms from entering.

How do mucosal membranes contribute to the immune system?

Mucosal membranes coat airways and tracts with mucins that trap organisms and prevent their attachment and replication.

What mechanical action helps to defend against invading organisms?

Tears, urine, and saliva help flush out organisms, preventing infection.

What is the function of commensal microbiota?

Commensal microbiota compete with pathogenic invaders and stimulate production of antimicrobial substances.

How do our bodies produce natural chemical defenses?

Our bodies produce various chemicals, including strong acids and enzymes like lysozymes, to defend against invaders.

What are lysozymes and where are they present?

Lysozymes are soluble mediators that attack and breakdown bacterial cell walls; they are found in blood, tears, and epithelial secretions.