Foundations in Pharmacology PHRM2005 - Adaptive Immune System

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to the adaptive immune system as outlined in the lecture notes.

Antigen

A substance that the immune system can recognize and respond to, often a part of a pathogen.

Immunogen

A type of antigen that elicits an immune response.

B-cell immunity

Also known as humoral immunity; involves the production of antibodies by B cells.

T-cell immunity

Also known as cell-mediated immunity; involves the activation of T cells to target infected or cancerous cells.

MHC (Major Histocompatibility Complex)

Cell surface molecules that present antigenic peptides to T cells.

Phagocytosis

The process by which phagocytes engulf and digest pathogens.

Opsonization

The process by which antibodies coat a pathogen to enhance phagocytosis.

Memory B cells

Long-lived B cells that provide lasting immunity by remembering past infections.

Complement system

Part of the immune system that enhances the ability of antibodies and phagocytes to clear pathogens.

Antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC)

A mechanism where antibodies bind to target cells and recruit immune cells to kill the target.

Cytotoxic T cells (Tc cells)

T cells that kill virus-infected cells by recognizing MHC I presented antigens.

Natural Killer cells (NK cells)

A type of immune cell that can kill infected or cancerous cells without prior sensitization.

Antigen presenting cells (APCs)

Cells that process and present antigens to T cells, including dendritic cells and macrophages.

IgA

An antibody type found in mucosal surfaces, playing a crucial role in immune defense at these locations.

Inflammatory response

A protective response involving immune cells, blood vessels, and molecular mediators that increases blood flow and permeability.