HSS 1100 Lecture Notes - Allergen, Escherichia Coli, Botulism

• School: University of Ottawa
• Department: Health Sciences
• Course: HSS 1100
• Professor: William Yan

Document Summary

Very complex system: non-specific (innate) immunity, specific (adaptive, acquired) immunity. Immunity: how a host finds ways to protect itself from pathogens through immune response. Doesn"t care whether the body is invaded by bacteria, viruses, etc. The immune system detects foreign bodies regardless of pathogenicity. Is an effective mechanical barrier (find out why: mucous membrane. Lysozymes are anti-bacterial enzymes that break down cell walls. Ph: bacteria prefer moist, alkaline ph: iron-binding proteins. Most body function is assisted by enzymes which may require heavy metals (i. e. : fe) Transferrin / lactoferrin round up iron for use by enzymes. Iron binding proteins protect against bacteria by competing for iron present in the system: phagocytosis. These are cells are produced by the immune system to target foreign bodies and engulf them. These cells are the 1st line of defense (in a healthy individual) E. g. : cystic fibrosis patients are very susceptible to infection due to their disease.