Imunoquímica e Imunopatologia

Immunology of Infectious Diseases and Adaptive Immune Response

Abstract

Isabel Allende*

Immunology is the study of the immune system and its response to various pathogens, including infectious diseases. The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues and organs that work together to protect the body from harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. When a pathogen enters the body, the immune system recognizes it as foreign and mounts a response to eliminate it. This response involves several key components. The innate immune system provides the first line of defence against pathogens. It includes physical barriers like the skin and mucous membranes, as well as immune cells such as neutrophils, macrophages and natural killer cells. These cells can recognize common features of pathogens, called Pathogen-Associated Molecular Patterns (PAMPs), through Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRRs). The innate immune response aims to contain and eliminate pathogens until the adaptive immune response can be activated.