BIOL 1107 Chapter Notes - Chapter 48.1: Pattern Recognition Receptor, Innate Immune System, Tlr7
Document Summary
Immunity is a resistance or protection against a disease-causing pathogen. The immune system is responsible for defending animals against pathogens. The success depends on three processes: (1) preventing the entry of potential pathogens (2) detecting the presence of a pathogen by distinguishing it from the animal"s own body and (3) eliminating the pathogen. Cells that are always ready confer innate immunity. Cells that must first be selectively activated to tailor their response to a specific pathogen confer adaptive immunity. Innate immunity is ready to go at birth. It is the first line of defence and includes exterior anatomical structures that protect animals from invading pathogens as well as interior detection and response systems. Human skin has an outer layer of dead cells that are reinforced with tough fibers of the protein keratin. The oil on the skin is converted to fatty acids and creates a dry, acidic environment that is restrictive to pathogens.
