Immunity

T cells are a type of white blood cell that is an essential part of the immune system. Some T cells bind and kill cells infected with bacteria or viruses, also known as antigens. Each T cell is specialized to respond to a specific antigen. Because your body carries millions of t cells, many of which carry unique receptors, it can respond to virtually any antigen.

• Specific Immunity

• Adaptive Immunity

• Non-Specific Immunity

• Innate Immunity

Mast cells are best known for releasing histamine and being a key player in serious allergic reactions, like someone having anaphylaxis from bee stings or peanuts, or an asthma attack triggered by something like smoke. These cells can detect and respond to a wide variety of foreign substances.

• Specific Immunity

• Adaptive Immunity

• Non-Specific Immunity

• Innate Immunity

B cells are a type of cell developed in bone marrow (the very center of a bone). When a B cell encounters an antigen it is able to differentiate into a plasma cell that secretes an antibody to attack the antigen present.

• Specific Immunity

• Adaptive Immunity

• Non-Specific Immunity

• Innate Immunity

Macrophage is a type of scavenger cell  produced by the immune system. These macrophages settle in many tissues which serve as filters for trapping antigens or foreign particles that arrive through the blood. The macrophage will then engulf and digest the foreign substance

• Specific Immunity

• Adaptive Immunity

• Non-Specific Immunity

• Innate Immunity

Once B cells and T cells are formed, a few of those cells will multiply and provide "memory" for your immune system. This allows your immune system to respond faster and more efficiently the next time you are exposed to the same antigen. In many cases, it will prevent you from getting sick. 

• Specific Immunity

• Adaptive Immunity

• Non-Specific Immunity

• Innate Immunity

Neutrophils are the first immune cells to travel to the site of an infection. These cells aid in the fight against invading antigens by providing molecules that destroy the invading cell or by ingesting the problem cell, particle, or virus.

• Specific Immunity

• Adaptive Immunity

• Non-Specific Immunity

• Innate Immunity

Anatomic barriers exist within the body. THese include skin, mucous, acids, bile salts, and enzymes. These barriers prevent different bacteria and viruses from causing harm to the body. 

• Specific Immunity

• Adaptive Immunity

• Non-Specific Immunity

• Innate Immunity