Differentiate between nonspecific defenses and specific defenses. Include in your answer examples of each
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Differentiating between nonspecific defenses and specific defenses is about understanding two different components of the immune system.
1. Nonspecific Defenses (Innate Immunity): These defenses are the body's first line of defense against pathogens (disease-causing microorganisms) and do not target specific pathogens. They are always active and provide a generalized defense against a wide range of invaders. Nonspecific defenses include the following:
a) Physical barriers: The skin and mucous membranes act as physical barriers that prevent the entry of pathogens. For example, the skin acts as a protective barrier, and the mucus in the respiratory and digestive tracts traps pathogens.
b) Chemical defenses: Various chemicals in the body, such as tears, saliva, and stomach acid, have antimicrobial properties that can kill or inhibit the growth of pathogens.
c) Inflammation: Inflammation is a response triggered by tissue damage and helps isolate and eliminate pathogens. It involves the release of chemicals that increase blood flow to the affected area and recruit immune cells to fight off the invaders.
2. Specific Defenses (Adaptive Immunity): Unlike nonspecific defenses, specific defenses are tailored to target specific pathogens. These defenses develop throughout an individual's lifetime and improve with each encounter with a particular pathogen. Specific defenses include the following:
a) Antibodies: Antibodies are proteins produced by specialized immune cells called B cells. They specifically bind to antigens (foreign molecules) present on the surface of pathogens, marking them for destruction by other immune cells.
b) T cells: T cells are another type of immune cell that recognizes and destroys infected cells directly. They are involved in cell-mediated immunity, where they identify and eliminate cells infected by intracellular pathogens.
c) Memory cells: When the immune system encounters a new pathogen, memory cells are produced. These cells "remember" the pathogen and enable a rapid and specific response upon re-exposure to the same pathogen, providing long-term immunity.
Understanding the difference between nonspecific and specific defenses is crucial in comprehending the complexity and effectiveness of the immune system's response to pathogens. For further details, you can refer to the link provided.