12 Basic Concepts of Immunity and Inflammation

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts related to the immune system and inflammation as discussed in the lecture notes.

Innate Immunity

The type of immunity present at birth that is not antigen specific and provides immediate response to infections.

Adaptive Immunity

The type of immunity that develops throughout life following exposure to specific antigens, characterized by the ability to remember and respond stronger to pathogens.

Leukocytes

White blood cells that play essential roles in the immune response, originating from hemopoietic stem cells.

Phagocytosis

The process by which certain immune cells engulf and digest pathogens or non-self molecules.

Cytokines

Biologically active proteins secreted by cells that activate and regulate the immune response.

Chemotaxis

The movement of cells towards an infection site in response to chemical signals released by other cells.

Antigens

Substances that induce an immune response, often recognized as non-self by the immune system.

Immunoglobulins

Also known as antibodies; they are proteins that neutralize pathogens and play a critical role in the immune response.

T-Lymphocytes

A type of agranulocyte involved in adaptive immunity, with subsets including T-helper, T-cytotoxic, T-memory, and natural killer T cells.

Inflammation

The body's protective response characterized by increased blood flow, vascular permeability, and immune cell migration, generally in response to injury or infection.