Introduction to Immunology

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Objectives for the phase 1

Study the structure and the function of the immune system Role of immune system in combating challenges to the body

Immune organs
Primary Bone marrow Thymus Secondary Lymph nodes Spleen Mucosa related lymphoid organs Eg; Peyers patches

Function of the immune system

Protection of the body (defense) Challenges External Internal

Microbes Allergen Autoantigens Cancer cells

Defense mechanisms
First line defense mechanisms Innate (Natural) immune response Second line defense mechanisms Acquired immune response

Components of the immune response

Cells Innate Granulocytes Macrophages Natural Killer cells (NK cells) Complements Cytokines Acute phase proteins eg; CRP Acquired Lymphocytes

Molecules

Complements Cytokines Antibodies

Types of acquired immune response

Cell mediated T lymphocytes Antibody mediated (Humoral) B lymphocytes Plasma cells Ig

Phases of the immune response

Recognition The fundamental characteristic of the immune system is to distinguish self from non-self tissues Communication Direct Indirect eg. Through cytokines Battle With cells or molecules Disposal ;Through phagocytosis

Clinical

Subclinical Vaccination (Artificial)

Infection (Natural) Immune response Lymphocytes/Ig Active

Passive

Immunity

Immunity (Immunis freedom from)

Natural Artificial

Active

Infection

Vaccination

Passive

Mother to Parenteral Ig child (colostrum)

Objectives for the phase 1

Study the structure and the function of the immune system Role of immune system in combating challenges to the body