Biology /Medical Terminology: Lymphatic & Immune Systems Part 3
Define: clonal selection
The process by which specific B or T cells are activated and proliferate in response to an antigen, leading to a tailored immune response. Clonal selection ensures a targeted response to infections.
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Key Terms
Term
Definition
Define: clonal selection
The process by which specific B or T cells are activated and proliferate in response to an antigen, leading to a tailored immune response. Clonal sele...
Define: complement system
A group of proteins that work together to enhance the immune response by marking pathogens for destruction and promoting inflammation. The complement ...
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Define: inflammation
A localized immune response characterized by redness, heat, swelling, and pain, aimed at eliminating pathogens and initiating healing. Inflammation is...
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Define: cytokines
Signaling proteins released by immune cells that mediate and regulate immunity, inflammation, and hematopoiesis. Cytokines are critical for communicat...
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Define: chemokines
A subset of cytokines that specifically attract immune cells to sites of infection or injury, aiding in the immune response. Chemokines guide immune c...
Define: interleukins
A group of cytokines produced by leukocytes that facilitate communication between immune cells and play various roles in immune regulation. Interleuki...
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| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
Define: clonal selection | The process by which specific B or T cells are activated and proliferate in response to an antigen, leading to a tailored immune response. Clonal selection ensures a targeted response to infections. |
Define: complement system | A group of proteins that work together to enhance the immune response by marking pathogens for destruction and promoting inflammation. The complement system plays a critical role in innate immunity. |
Define: inflammation | A localized immune response characterized by redness, heat, swelling, and pain, aimed at eliminating pathogens and initiating healing. Inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection. |
Define: cytokines | Signaling proteins released by immune cells that mediate and regulate immunity, inflammation, and hematopoiesis. Cytokines are critical for communication between immune cells. |
Define: chemokines | A subset of cytokines that specifically attract immune cells to sites of infection or injury, aiding in the immune response. Chemokines guide immune cells to areas where they are needed. |
Define: interleukins | A group of cytokines produced by leukocytes that facilitate communication between immune cells and play various roles in immune regulation. Interleukins are essential for coordinating the immune response. |
Define: interferons | Proteins produced by cells in response to viral infections that help inhibit viral replication and activate immune cells. Interferons are crucial for the body's defense against viruses. |
Define: tumor necrosis factor (TNF) | A cytokine involved in systemic inflammation that can induce cell death and is important in the immune response against tumors and infections. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is a key player in inflammatory responses. |
Define: apoptosis | A programmed cell death process that eliminates damaged or unnecessary cells without causing inflammation, playing a role in maintaining tissue homeostasis. Apoptosis is crucial for eliminating cells that could become cancerous. |
Define: opsonization | The process by which pathogens are marked for destruction by antibodies or complement proteins, enhancing their recognition and uptake by phagocytes. Opsonization improves the efficiency of the immune response. |
Define: phagocytosis | The process by which certain cells, such as macrophages and neutrophils, engulf and digest pathogens and debris. Phagocytosis is a vital mechanism for clearing infections. |
Define: autoimmune disease | A condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells and tissues, leading to inflammation and damage. Autoimmune diseases can affect multiple organs and systems. |
Define: immunodeficiency | A condition in which the immune system's ability to fight infections and diseases is compromised or entirely absent. Immunodeficiency can be congenital or acquired, such as in HIV/AIDS. |
Define: hypersensitivity | An exaggerated immune response to a harmless substance, leading to tissue damage and inflammation, commonly seen in allergies. Hypersensitivity reactions can range from mild to life-threatening. |
Define: allergy | An immune response to a substance that is usually harmless, resulting in symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe anaphylaxis. The patient experienced an allergy to pollen, causing sneezing and itching. |
Define: anaphylaxis | A severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that occurs rapidly and can cause difficulty breathing, swelling, and a drop in blood pressure. The patient required immediate treatment for anaphylaxis after exposure to a bee sting. |
Define: asthma | A chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing. The patient uses an inhaler to manage their asthma symptoms. |
Define: rheumatoid arthritis | An autoimmune disorder that causes chronic inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, swelling, and potential joint damage. Rheumatoid arthritis can significantly impact a person's quality of life. |
Define: lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, SLE) | A chronic autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organ systems, characterized by inflammation and damage to various tissues. Lupus can cause a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue and joint pain. |
Define: type 1 diabetes | An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, leading to high blood sugar levels. Type 1 diabetes requires lifelong insulin therapy for management. |
Define: celiac disease | An autoimmune disorder triggered by the ingestion of gluten, leading to damage in the small intestine and malabsorption of nutrients. Patients with celiac disease must adhere to a strict gluten-free diet. |
Define: multiple sclerosis | A chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, causing demyelination of nerve fibers and leading to a variety of neurological symptoms. Multiple sclerosis can lead to mobility and coordination issues. |
Define: hashimoto’s thyroiditis | An autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism and a range of symptoms such as fatigue and weight gain. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is a common cause of hypothyroidism. |
Define: graves’ disease | An autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism due to the overstimulation of the thyroid gland, leading to symptoms like weight loss and increased heart rate. Graves’ disease can cause bulging eyes due to inflammation. |
Define: HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) | A virus that attacks the immune system by destroying CD4+ T cells, leading to progressive immunodeficiency and increased susceptibility to infections. HIV can progress to AIDS if not treated effectively. |