Summary of key facts The innate immune system is the host’s first line of immune defense against challenges of the environment. The innate immune system response is a nonrestricted, rapid response. Innate immunity is required for the establishment of adaptive…
Summary of key facts The complement system is a key component of the innate immune system, responsible for facilitating immune defense mechanisms, regulating inflammation, and maintaining tissue homeostasis. The complement system is a proteolytic cascade, comprising more than 50 highly…
Summary of key facts Immunoglobulins (Igs) are the soluble mediators of antigen recognition. An Ig that is capable of specifically binding an antigen is termed an antibody . Immunoglobulins range in molecular weight from 150 kD to 900 kD and…
Summary of key facts The lymphatic system is a complex, blind-ended vascular tree distinct and separate from the blood circulatory system. Lymphatics facilitate tissue fluid homeostasis, nutrient uptake, and immune functions. Lymphatic vessels and lymphatic endothelial cells have unique features…