Question

Discuss the immune response to an extracellular bacterial pathogen. Include the branch(es) of the immune system which would mount the response, how that response would be mounted, and the major effector functions that would be observed. While you should include information on the innate immune response to your chosen pathogen, the bulk of your response should be focused on the adaptive immune response.

I'm looking for a 1-2 pages answer, but anything helps, thanks!

Answer 1

When any bacteria or other pathogen invade the body, then immune response takes place.

An immune response is a specific reactivity in a host by an antigenic stimulus.

The innate immunity provides the first line of defence against the infection. Innate response include -

Intact skin and mucosa covering of body. These provide mechanical barrier.

Cellular factors like macrophages and macrophages helps in elimination of pathogens.

Inflammation and fever are also part of innate immunity .

The acquired immunity is the main immunity which is responsible for providing protection against pathogens.

It has two response- primary and secondary

Primary immune response is when a microorganism or antigen is encountered for first time. Response is mild and transient.

Secondary immune response occur when the same microorganism attacks for the second time. This time ,the response is rapid, vigorous and prolonged.

The lymphocyte involved in acquired response are- B and T lymphocytes.

B lymphocytes are precursor of antibody and provide humoral immunity.

T lymphocytes are responsible for cell mediated immunity.

Both types of lymphocytes works together to kill the bacteria and protect body.