Question

The innate and the adaptive immune systems are often discussed as separate entities, but we have outlined multiple times this semester where these 2 systems are linked. Briefly (and generally) explain (1 paragraph) the DIFFERENCES between the 2 systems. Then, give a minimum of three (3) different examples of when these 2 systems overlap

Answer 1

Innate and adaptive immune system Differences:

1. Innate immune system is present from birth while the adaptive immune system develops after birth.

2. It doesnot require antigenic stimulation to develop but antigenic stimulation is required to develop a particular adaptive immune system

3. Innate immunity is non-specific in nature but adaptive immunity is specific in nature.

4. Innate immunity does not show immunologic memory response but adaptive immunity shows immunologic memory response.

Innate and adaptive immunity Overlap:

a) Dendritic cells of innate immune system takes upp antigens and presents them on both MHC class 1 and class II molecules which gets recognized by the T-cell receptors which are part of the adaptive immune system.

b) Antibodies produced by the B-cells of adaptive immune system binds with the antigens and helps macrophages or other phagocytes of innate immune system to recognize the antigen and causing destruction of it quickly.

c) Cytokines and Interferons produced by B-cell or T-cell of adaptive immune response helps in activation of several macrophages, dendritic cells of the innate immune system. Cytokines along with antibodies makes an immune response more efficient.