Describe briefly about 1. Innate vs. Adaptive Immunity: The innate immune response.
The innate immune response is the body's initial defense mechanism against pathogens and other foreign substances. It is a non-specific, rapid response that is present in individuals from birth.
Innate immunity involves physical and chemical barriers that are always present and provide the first line of defense. This includes the skin, mucous membranes, and secretions such as tears and saliva. These barriers help prevent the entry of pathogens into the body.
Additionally, cells of the innate immune system, such as phagocytes and natural killer cells, play a crucial role. Phagocytes engulf and destroy foreign particles, while natural killer cells recognize and kill diseased cells, such as virus-infected cells or tumor cells.
The innate immune response also involves the release of inflammatory molecules, such as cytokines, which attract more immune cells to the site of infection or injury to aid in the elimination of pathogens.
Unlike adaptive immunity, which develops after exposure to specific pathogens, the innate immune response is not specialized to particular pathogens. It provides rapid but temporary protection against a wide range of invaders until the adaptive immune response takes over.
Overall, the innate immune response serves as the body's immediate defense against pathogens, preventing their entry and combating them until the adaptive immune response can mount a more targeted and long-lasting defense.