Innate and Adaptive Immunity Overview

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts in innate and adaptive immunity, along with related topics such as microbial control and host-microbe relationships.

Innate Immunity

The body’s first line of defense that is non-specific and responds quickly to pathogens.

Adaptive Immunity

A more specific immune response that involves memory and a slower reaction to pathogens.

Nonspecific Immunity

Another term for innate immunity, highlighting its broad approach against pathogens.

Acquired Immunity

Another term for adaptive immunity, indicating its development after exposure to specific pathogens.

Phagocytes

Cells such as neutrophils, macrophages, and dendritic cells that engulf and destroy pathogens.

Leukocyte

A white blood cell involved in defending the body against infections.

Thrombocyte

A platelet that helps with blood clotting.

Neutrophils

The most common type of white blood cell (WBC) in a normal differential count, known for their phagocytic abilities.

Inflammation

A process involving increased blood flow, immune cell migration, and tissue repair to combat infection.

Interferon

A protein produced by cells in response to viral infections that helps protect uninfected cells.

Complement

A group of proteins that enhance immune responses, promote inflammation, and destroy pathogens.

Tuberculoid Leprosy

A mild form of leprosy characterized by fewer lesions and less germs.

Lepromatous Leprosy

A severe form of leprosy characterized by widespread lesions and more germs.

Pulmonary Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis that affects the lungs.

Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis that affects organs outside the lungs, such as bones, kidneys, or lymph nodes.

BCG Vaccine

A vaccine used to protect against tuberculosis, particularly in areas where TB is common.

Sterilization

The process of killing or removing all microbes, including spores.

Disinfectant

A substance used to kill or inhibit microorganisms on non-living surfaces.

Antiseptic

A substance used on living tissues to kill or inhibit microorganisms.

Selective Toxicity

The ability of a drug to target pathogens without harming the host.

Antibiotic Resistance

When bacteria evolve mechanisms to withstand the effects of antibiotics.

MRSA

Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus, a type of bacteria resistant to many antibiotics.

Portals of Entry

Routes through which pathogens enter the body, such as skin, mucous membranes, or respiratory tract.

Microbial Antagonism

The competition between normal flora and pathogens, where normal flora protect the host.

Virulence Factors

Traits or molecules produced by bacteria that enable them to cause disease.

Active Immunity

When the body produces its own antibodies, as seen after vaccination.

Passive Immunity

When antibodies are transferred from another source, such as maternal antibodies.

Humoral Immune Response

The branch of the immune system involving B cells.

Cellular Immune Response

The branch of the immune system involving T cells.

Immunoglobulins

Proteins also known as antibodies, classified into five classes: IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG, and IgM.

Clonal Selection Theory

The theory explaining how B and T cells recognize specific antigens and select the appropriate clone to combat them.

Self-Tolerance

The ability of the immune system to distinguish between self and non-self cells, preventing the attack on the body's own tissues.