Immunology

Immunology Immunology is the study of our protection from foreign macromolecules or invading organisms and  our responses to them. These invaders include viruses, bacteria, protozoa or even larger parasites. In addition, we develop immune responses against our own proteins (and other molecules) in autoimmunity and against our own aberrant cells in tumor immunity.  Our first line of defense against foreign organisms are barrier tissues such as the skin that stop the entry of organism into our bodies. If, however, these barrier layers are penetrated, the body contains cells that respond rapidly to the presence of the invader. These cells include macrophages and neutrophils that engulf foreign organisms and kill them without the need for antibodies. Immediate challenge also comes from soluble molecules that deprive the invading organism of essential nutrients (such as iron) and from certain molecules that are found on the surfaces of epithelia, in secretions (such as tears and saliva) and in the blood stream. This form of immunity is the innate or non-specific immune system that is continually ready to respond to invasion.   A second line cells, immune, system, foreign, molecules, specific, responses, response, respond, proteins, organisms, organism, infection, against, viruses, soluble, second, produced, primary, own, line, invading, include, defense, barrier, antibodies, without, vital, virally-infected, variety, tumors, tumorigenic, tumor, tissues, tears, take