Molecular & Cell Biology II - Immune System Primer

Vocabulary flashcards for key immunology terms from the lecture.

Thymus

Organs where T cells mature and are selected; encapsulated.

Bone Marrow

Site of hematopoiesis in the immune system.

Hematopoiesis

Process of diversification of immune cells from hematopoietic stem cells.

Myeloid cells

Cells derived from stem cells that contribute to innate immunity.

Lymphoid cells

Cells derived from stem cells that contribute to adaptive immunity.

Innate immunity

Immunity involving macrophages, dendritic cells, neutrophils, and NK cells.

Adaptive immunity

Immunity involving T and B cells.

Neutrophils, mast cells, basophils, and eosinophils

Granulocytic cells involved in phagocytosis or release of inflammatory mediators.

Mast cells

Release histamine, cytokines and other inflammatory mediators upon IgE crosslinking.

Monocytes

Quiescent precursors to macrophages found in all tissues.

Macrophages and dendritic cells

Differentiated monocytes that detect pathogens, phagocytose, and present antigens.

Toll-like Receptors (TLRs)

Receptors on macrophages and dendritic cells that detect pathogens.

Inflammasomes (NALP3, IPAF)

Complexes that trigger inflammation upon detection of cytosolic threats.

T and B cells

Main cell types of the adaptive immune system.

B cells

Cells that express membrane-bound antibody (IgM) to recognize intact antigens.

T cells

Cells that express a T cell receptor to recognize processed antigen bound to MHC.

Antigen-Presenting Cells (APCs)

Cells that present antigens via MHCII.

TCR

T cell receptor, recognizes specific antigens presented on MHC molecules

Major Histocompatibility Complex class II (MHCII)

Surface protein complex that presents antigens to T helper cells.

CD28, CD80, CD86, CTLA4

Co-stimulatory molecules and immune checkpoints modulating antigen presentation.