Innate Immunity
Innate immunity, which is present from birth, is the first line of defense against infections. It is non-specific, which means it reacts the same way to all infections. Physical barriers such as skin and mucous membranes, as well as cellular and chemical components such as natural killer cells, phagocytes, and complement proteins, are all components of the innate immune system. Innate immunity responds to infections quickly, frequently within minutes to hours. It does not give long-term pathogen protection and does not create immunological memory. In contrast to the adaptive immune system, which only exists in vertebrates and evolved fewer than 500 million years ago, innate immune responses have been observed in both vertebrates and invertebrates as well as plants, and the underlying mechanisms that control them are preserved. Invertebrates’ innate immune systems also need to be activated for the adaptive immune system to function.
Innate immunity examples include:
- Mucus, which traps bacteria and small particles
- Enzymes in tears and skin oils
- Stomach acid
Differences Between Innate and Adaptive Immunity
Innate and adaptive immunity are immune system components that work together to defend the body from dangerous microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria, and parasites.
The body is protected from pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and fungi by the immune system, which is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs. Both innate immunity and adaptive immunity are immunological responses that offer defense against various pathogens kinds. While adaptive immunity develops over time and is more specific to particular diseases, innate immunity is the initial line of defense and is present from birth.