What are the functions of the immune system quizlet?

The Immune System: Your Body’s Guardian

The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to protect the body from infection and disease. It is constantly on the lookout for foreign invaders, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. When it detects an invader, the immune system responds by activating a series of defense mechanisms to neutralize and eliminate the threat.

Functions of the Immune System

The immune system has a number of important functions, including:

• Recognition and elimination of pathogens: The immune system can recognize and destroy a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It does this by producing antibodies, which are proteins that bind to specific antigens on the surface of pathogens. Once bound, the antibodies can neutralize the pathogens, making them unable to infect cells.
• Detection and response to cellular irregularities: The immune system can also detect and respond to cellular irregularities that could lead to cancer. For example, it can recognize and destroy cells that have mutated or become cancerous.
• Regulation of inflammation: The immune system plays a role in regulating inflammation, which is a natural response to injury or infection. Inflammation can help to protect the body by isolating the injured area and promoting healing. However, excessive inflammation can also be harmful, and the immune system helps to keep it under control.
• Maintenance of homeostasis: The immune system helps to maintain homeostasis, which is the body’s internal balance. It does this by regulating the production of hormones and other signaling molecules.

How the Immune System Works

The immune system is a complex system with many different components. These components work together in a coordinated fashion to protect the body from infection and disease.

The first line of defense against infection is the innate immune system. The innate immune system is made up of cells and proteins that are always present in the body. These cells and proteins can recognize and destroy a wide range of pathogens.

The second line of defense against infection is the adaptive immune system. The adaptive immune system is made up of cells and proteins that are produced in response to specific pathogens. These cells and proteins can recognize and destroy specific pathogens.

The innate and adaptive immune systems work together to protect the body from infection and disease. The innate immune system provides a rapid response to infection, while the adaptive immune system provides a more targeted and long-lasting response.

Conclusion

The immune system is a vital part of our overall health. It protects us from infection and disease, and it helps to maintain homeostasis. Without the immune system, we would be vulnerable to a wide range of pathogens and diseases.