Innate immunity

Definition

Innate immunity is the body's first line of defense against pathogens, consisting of physical barriers, immune cells, and proteins. It provides a rapid but non-specific response to infections.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Innate immunity includes physical barriers such as skin and mucous membranes.
2. It involves immune cells like macrophages, neutrophils, and natural killer cells that attack invaders.
3. The response from innate immunity is immediate and does not require previous exposure to the pathogen.
4. Proteins such as cytokines and complement proteins play key roles in signaling and attacking pathogens.
5. Innate immunity activates the adaptive immune system by presenting antigens to lymphocytes.

Review Questions

• What are the main components of innate immunity?
• How does innate immunity differ from adaptive immunity in terms of response time and specificity?
• Which types of proteins are involved in the function of innate immunity?

Related terms

Adaptive Immunity: The body's second line of defense that targets specific pathogens with tailored responses involving B and T cells.

Macrophages: Immune cells that engulf and digest pathogens through phagocytosis.

Cytokines:

Signaling proteins released by cells that mediate and regulate immunity, inflammation, and hematopoiesis.