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Fundamentals of Immunology Explained

May 22, 2025

Immunology Lecture Notes

Introduction to Immunology

  • Definition: Study of the immune system, which protects against disease and infection.
  • Importance: Understanding immune responses leads to advancements in healthcare and treatment of diseases.

Components of the Immune System

  • Innate Immunity: First line of defense, non-specific response.
    • Examples: Skin, mucous membranes, white blood cells.
  • Adaptive Immunity: Specific, acquired immunity.
    • Involves lymphocytes (B cells and T cells).
    • Develops memory for quicker response upon re-exposure.

Cells of the Immune System

  • B Lymphocytes (B Cells)
    • Produce antibodies.
    • Responsible for humoral immunity.
  • T Lymphocytes (T Cells)
    • Types include Helper T cells and Cytotoxic T cells.
    • Involved in cell-mediated immunity.

Immune Responses

  • Primary Immune Response: Initial exposure to antigen.
    • Slower response, fewer antibodies produced.
  • Secondary Immune Response: Subsequent exposure.
    • Faster and more robust due to memory cells.

Immunological Disorders

  • Autoimmune Diseases: Immune system attacks body's own cells.
    • Examples: Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus.
  • Immunodeficiency Disorders: Weakened immune response.
    • Examples: HIV/AIDS.

Vaccination

  • Purpose: Stimulate an immune response without causing disease.
  • Types:
    • Live attenuated vaccines.
    • Inactivated vaccines.
    • Subunit, recombinant, or conjugate vaccines.

Conclusion

  • Immunology is crucial for developing therapies and vaccines.
  • Ongoing research is necessary to combat emerging diseases.