3020 Lecture 23
Amber Stokes・32 minutes read
Inflammatory response enables phagocytes to eliminate bacteria, with the complement system activating in the presence of pathogens to cause them to burst. Edward Jenner's vaccination study in 1796 led to the understanding of immunity, while memory cells allow for swift immune responses to familiar antigens.
Insights
- Inflammatory responses are triggered by cell injuries, causing blood vessels to dilate and become more permeable, allowing phagocytes to eliminate bacteria. This process is accompanied by an acute phase response that includes fever to enhance immune activity and impede microbial growth.
- Edward Jenner's observation of milkmaids' immunity to smallpox due to exposure to cowpox marked the beginning of vaccination, showcasing how exposure to related pathogens can confer immunity without severe symptoms upon subsequent exposure.
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Recent questions
What is the purpose of the complement system?
The complement system consists of proteins that circulate in the blood and become activated in the presence of pathogens. When activated, it forms a membrane attack complex that causes pathogens to swell and burst, aiding in their elimination from the body.
How did Edward Jenner contribute to immunity studies?
Edward Jenner initiated the scientific study of immunity in 1796 by observing that milkmaids rarely contracted smallpox due to exposure to cowpox. This observation led to the development of the first form of vaccination, as exposure to cowpox provided immunity against smallpox.
What are primary lymphoid organs responsible for?
Primary lymphoid organs, such as the bone marrow and thymus, play critical roles in the immune system. They facilitate the maturation of B cells in the bone marrow and T cells in the thymus, ensuring the development of functional immune cells.
What are antigens and their role in immune responses?
Antigens are molecules that provoke specific immune responses by signaling the immune system to react. Typically found on the surface of invaders or microorganisms, antigens can have multiple antigenic determinants called epitopes, stimulating distinct immune responses in the body.
How do memory cells contribute to the immune system?
Memory cells play a crucial role in the immune system by enabling rapid responses to previously encountered antigens. Similar to how individuals remember past interactions, memory cells allow for swift and efficient immune responses upon re-exposure to familiar antigens, enhancing the body's ability to fight off infections.