Question

Describe the human and plant immune systems.

Answer 1

Innate immunity is a nonspecific resistance (body’s 1^st line of defense) that we have from the time of birth. Innate immunity is not triggered by the specific antigens; so, it is a non-specific defense system regardless of the type of invading agent. Our body is able to prevent the occurrence of any disease, entry of pathological organisms, and spread of infections through the innate immunity only. The seven defensive mechanisms of innate immunity include physical barriers, phagocytes, immune surveillance, interferons, complement system, inflammation and fever.

Adaptive immunity (acquired) provides specific immunity against particular pathogens (specific immunity and generates specific antibodies) and is acquired after birth. B cells secrete antibodies, which provide specific immunity. Thus, they are mostly involved in adaptive immunity.

Similar to the humans, plants also protect themselves against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This occurs by means of physical barriers, by producing the secondary metabolites that serve as antibiotics, or by means of certain enzymes that disturb the pathogen metabolism. Plants have both the innate and adaptive immune systems similar to humans.