Immunology

Definition

Immunology is the branch of biology that studies the immune system and its functions in protecting the body from pathogens. It involves understanding how the body recognizes and responds to foreign microorganisms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The immune system has two main components: innate immunity and adaptive immunity.
2. Innate immunity provides immediate, non-specific defense against pathogens.
3. Adaptive immunity involves a specific response to particular pathogens and includes memory cells for faster future responses.
4. Key cells involved in immunology include lymphocytes such as T cells and B cells.
5. Vaccination leverages the principles of immunology to provide immunity without causing disease.

Review Questions

• What are the two main components of the immune system?
• How does adaptive immunity differ from innate immunity?
• What role do T cells and B cells play in immunology?

Related terms

Pathogen:

A microorganism that can cause disease.

Antigen:

A substance that triggers an immune response.

Vaccine: A biological preparation that provides active acquired immunity to a particular infectious disease.