Category: Lab Notes: Immunology
Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA)/Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC)
Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA), also known as the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) in humans, is a complex gene system crucial…
Interferon
Interferons (IFNs) are a family of cytokines that play crucial roles in the immune response, particularly against viral infections. They…
Interleukin
Interleukins (ILs) are a large family of cytokines that play essential roles in the immune system, mediating communication between leukocytes…
T Cell Receptor (TCR)
The T cell receptor (TCR) is a specialized molecular complex found on the surface of T lymphocytes that enables these…
Polyclonal Antibodies Vs Monoclonal Antibodies
Criteria Polyclonal Antibodies Monoclonal Antibodies Remarks Definition A heterogeneous mixture of antibodies produced by multiple B-cell clones Homogeneous antibodies derived…
Phagocytosis
Phagocytosis is a fundamental cellular process where specialized cells engulf and destroy particles, pathogens, and dead cells. This process is…
Antigen
An antigen is any substance that can trigger an immune response and be specifically recognized by the immune system. These…
Innate Immunity Vs Adaptive Immunity
Criteria Innate Immunity Adaptive Immunity Remarks Definition First line of defense with non-specific response Second line of defense with antigen-specific…
Hypersensitivity
Hypersensitivity reactions are excessive or inappropriate immune responses that can damage tissues and cause disease. These reactions are classified into…
Adaptive Immunity
Adaptive immunity is a highly specific defense system that develops throughout our lifetime in response to exposure to pathogens and…
Innate Immunity
Innate immunity represents the body’s first line of defense against pathogens, consisting of both physical barriers and cellular responses that…
Platelets
Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are small anucleate blood cells essential for hemostasis, wound healing, and various immune responses. These…
Red Blood Cells (RBCs)
Red blood cells (RBCs), or erythrocytes, are highly specialized cells dedicated to oxygen transport throughout the body. These unique cells,…
Hematopoietic Stem Cells (HSCs)
Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are rare, self-renewing cells residing primarily in the bone marrow that give rise to all blood…
Mucosal Immunity
Mucosal immunity is a crucial component of the immune system that provides protection at mucosal surfaces, which are the primary…