Neutrophils
Phagocytize and digest pathogens
Monocytes
Mature into macrophages and engulf pathogens
Macrophages
Phagocytize pathogens and debris, present antigens to T cells
Dendritic Cells
Capture and present antigens to T cells, important in initiating immune responses
Eosinophils
Involved in the defense against parasites and allergic reactions
White Blood Cells
Neutrophils, Monocytes, Macrophages, Dendritic Cell, Eosinophils
Lymphocytes
Helper T Cells, Cytotoxic T cells, Regulatory T cells, Memory cells, Plasma cells, NK cells
Helper T Cells (CD4+ T Cells)
Coordinate immune responses, activate B cells and cytotoxic T cells
Cytotoxic T Cells (CD8+ T Cells)
Destroy infected or abnormal cells
Regulatory T Cells (Tregs)
Suppress immune responses to prevent excessive reactions
Plasma Cells
Produce antibodies (immunoglobulins) that neutralize pathogens
Memory B Cells
"Remember" previous encounters with pathogens for a faster response upon re-exposure
Natural Killer (NK) Cells
Recognize and destroy virus-infected cells and cancer cells
Granulocytes:
Basophils, Mast Cells
Basophils
Release histamine and other mediators involved in allergic reactions
Mast Cells
Release histamine and other inflammatory substances in response to allergens
Phagocytes
Various cells, including neutrophils, monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells, are involved in phagocytosis—engulfing and digesting pathogens
Antigen-Presenting Cells (APCs)
Dendritic cells, macrophages, and B cells present antigens to T cells to initiate immune responses.
MHC Class
Present endogenous antigens to cytotoxic T cells
MHC Class II
Present exogenous antigens to helper T cells
Cytokines
Small proteins that act as signaling molecules between immune cells
Antigens
Antigens are molecules (often proteins or polysaccharides) that can trigger an immune response
Antibodies (Immunoglobulins):
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bind to specific antigens, marking them for destruction or neutralization. They play a crucial role in humoral immunity
Complement System
A group of proteins that enhance the immune response by promoting phagocytosis, attracting immune cells, and forming membrane attack complexes to destroy pathogen.
Humoral Immunity
A component of the adaptive immune system that involves the production of antibodies by B cells. These antibodies circulate in the bloodstream and other bodily fluids, targeting and neutralizing pathogens such as bacteria and viruses.
Innate Immunity
The first line of defense in the immune system that provides immediate, non-specific protection against a wide range of pathogens. It includes physical and chemical barriers, as well as cellular components such as phagocytes and natural killer cells.
Passive Immunity
Immunity is acquired through the transfer of pre-formed antibodies from one individual to another
Active Immunity
Immunity is developed by the body's Immune system in response to exposure to a pathogen or through vaccination