The Human Body Module 12

A collection of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms related to immunity and the lymphatic system.

Innate Immunity

An immune response that is the same regardless of the pathogen or toxin encountered, present from birth.

Acquired Immunity

An immune response targeted specifically at a pathogen or toxin experienced previously.

Active Natural Immunity

Immunity gained from exposure to a pathogen, leading to the formation of memory B and T cells.

Active Artificial Immunity

Immunity gained through vaccination, which stimulates the immune response without causing disease.

Passive Natural Immunity

Immunity acquired through antibodies from the mother, either during pregnancy or through breastfeeding.

Passive Artificial Immunity

Immunity obtained by the transfer of antibodies from one individual to another, temporary in nature.

T Lymphocytes (T Cells)

A type of white blood cell that matures in the thymus and is essential for cell-mediated immunity.

B Lymphocytes (B Cells)

A type of white blood cell that produces antibodies and is responsible for humoral immunity.

Memory Cells

Long-lived immune cells that remember past infections, enabling a quicker response upon re-exposure.

Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC)

A collection of proteins on cell surfaces that help the immune system recognize self from non-self.

Cytotoxic T Cells

Effector T cells that recognize and destroy foreign or infected cells by causing them to lyse.

Helper T Cells

T cells that stimulate the proliferation of B cells and cytotoxic T cells.

IgG Antibodies

A class of antibodies that helps promote phagocytosis and provides long-term immunity.

IgM Antibodies

A class of antibodies that forms complexes to activate complement proteins.

Lysozyme

An enzyme found in tears that breaks down the cell walls of bacteria.

Phagocytosis

The process by which certain immune cells engulf and digest foreign particles, such as bacteria.

Complement System

A group of proteins that aid in destroying pathogens by lysis, promoting inflammation, and attracting phagocytes.

Interferon

Proteins produced by cells infected with a virus that help neighboring cells resist viral infection.

Autoimmunity

A condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells.

Vaccination

The administration of a vaccine to stimulate an individual's immune system against a specific pathogen.

Antigen Binding Sites

Regions on antibodies where specific antigens bind, allowing for targeted immune responses.