Immuniikkomponentteja

Immuniikkomponentteja refers to the various cells, molecules, and tissues that make up the immune system. These components work together to defend the body against pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites, as well as abnormal cells like cancer cells. The immune system is broadly divided into two main branches: the innate immune system and the adaptive immune system.

Innate immuniikkomponentteja include physical barriers like skin and mucous membranes, as well as cells such as phagocytes (macrophages and neutrophils) and natural killer cells. These components provide a rapid, non-specific defense. Molecules like complement proteins and cytokines are also part of the innate immune response, helping to signal and amplify the immune attack.

Adaptive immuniikkomponentteja, on the other hand, are highly specific and develop a memory of encountered pathogens. Key players in the adaptive immune system are lymphocytes, specifically B cells and T cells. B cells produce antibodies, which are proteins that neutralize or mark pathogens for destruction. T cells include helper T cells that coordinate immune responses and cytotoxic T cells that directly kill infected cells. The adaptive immune system's memory allows for a faster and more effective response upon re-exposure to the same pathogen. Together, these diverse immuniikkomponentteja form a complex and vital defense network.