Innate immunity

Definition

Innate immunity is the body's first line of defense against pathogens, providing an immediate but non-specific response. It involves physical barriers, immune cells, and various proteins to protect the host from infection.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Innate immunity includes physical barriers like skin and mucous membranes.
2. Cell types such as macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells play crucial roles in innate immunity.
3. Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) on immune cells detect pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs).
4. Inflammation is a hallmark response of the innate immune system to infection or injury.
5. The complement system enhances the ability of antibodies and phagocytic cells to clear microbes and damaged cells.

Review Questions

• What are some examples of physical barriers involved in innate immunity?
• Which cell types are primarily associated with innate immune responses?
• How do pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) contribute to innate immunity?

Related terms

Adaptive Immunity: A specific immune response that develops over time and involves memory cells for long-term protection.

Phagocytosis: The process by which certain immune cells engulf and digest pathogens or debris.

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