What's included

• The Human Immune System: An Overview

  The human immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against harmful pathogens, such as viruses and bacteria. It is made up of two main parts: the innate immune system and the adaptive immune system. The innate immune system is the first line of defense against pathogens. It includes physical barriers, such as the skin and mucous membranes, as well as immune cells like macrophages, neutrophils, and natural killer cells. These cells detect and destroy pathogens through a variety of mechanisms, such as phagocytosis and the release of antimicrobial proteins. The adaptive immune system is activated if the innate immune system is unable to completely eliminate the pathogen. This part of the immune system is highly specific and has the ability to remember previous encounters with a pathogen, allowing for a faster and more efficient response upon subsequent exposure. The adaptive immune system includes B cells, which produce antibodies that can bind to and neutralize specific pathogens, and T cells, which can directly attack infected cells and help activate other immune cells. There are also several factors that can affect the functioning of the immune system. These include genetics, age, nutrition, stress, and environmental factors. A weakened immune system can result in increased susceptibility to infections, while an overactive immune system can lead to autoimmune disorders. Overall, the human immune system plays a critical role in maintaining health and protecting against disease. Ongoing research is aimed at understanding the immune system in more detail and developing new strategies for improving immune function and treating immune-related disorders.