The immune system’s all-stars
The immune system is made up of dozens of types of cells that surveil for threats, communicate with one another, and defend and protect the body in a variety of ways.
This hardwired part of the immune system is quick to respond to injuries, viruses, bacteria, and more.
Neutrophils and macrophages are like the patrol officers responding first to an immediate threat. Both types of cells destroy viruses and bacteria soon after they are detected. Macrophages also release molecules called cytokines that cause inflammation and make it easier for more immune cells to reach the area.
Dendritic cells act like crime scene investigators. They break invader cells apart and bring their uniquely detectable component molecules and pieces, or antigens, back to the adaptive immune system to learn more about the enemy.
The adaptive immune system is a trained against specific threats, and also learns and retains a memory of antigens it has encountered before.
T cells are the body’s specialized immune soldiers. They are a type of white blood cell that will destroy the body’s own cells when necessary if it detects that cell is infected or damaged. They can also direct the activities of many other parts of the immune system.
B cells multiply in high numbers when fighting off an infection or invader, and produce antibodies, which are specialized protein molecules that are custom-made by the body to latch onto and neutralize or destroy viruses, toxins, and any foreign molecules that are perceived as a threat.