Development of the Immune Response System

An Overview of Specific Immune Responses

Immune responses are highly complex and regulated, and they represent one of the most elegant and coordinated networks of cells and chemicals in the body. To present this system in an organized and clear manner, we have found it helpful to divide it into separate but related sections, each detailing some event in development or the immune response. The sections and pages of coverage are as follows:

I. Development and differentiation of the immune system

II. Lymphocytes, maturation, and the nature of antigens

III. Cooperation between lymphocytes during antigen presentation

IV. B lymphocyte responses and the production and actions of antibodies

V. T-lymphocyte responses

As we explore the information contained in these sections, we will be following a “map” of sorts. Figure 2 lays out the flow of the main stages and will serve to coordinate the presentation. It also includes figure numbers that enlarge on the topics in that section.

Before we examine lymphocyte development and function in greater detail, we must initially review concepts such as the unique structure of molecules (especially proteins), the characteristics of cell surfaces (membranes and envelopes), the ways that genes are expressed, immune recognition, and identification of self and nonself. Ultimately, the shape and function of protein receptors and markers protruding from the surfaces of certain white blood cells are the result of genetic expression, and these molecules are responsible for specific immune recognition and, thus, immune reactions.

Дата добавления: 2015-06-04