There are two main parts to your immune system – the part you are born with and the part that develops as you are exposed to microbes. These two parts work together in concert to protect you. Your immune system is made up of various types of protective cells that originate in different organs and perform specific tasks. Because of evolution, humans have an enhanced immune system. These cells can now defend us against different types of bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Neutrophils, the main type of white blood cells, are called neutrophils and work to fight off bacteria. Macrophages, on the other hand, are larger and hang around the body for longer periods of time. They work in tissue, collaborating with T-cells to kill microorganisms. Both neutrophils and macrophages communicate with one another through the production of cytokines. In addition, these cells also act on distant cells.
In the innate immune system, a group of immune cells called neutrophils and macrophages detect intruders and call in other troops to help in the attack. These cells release cytokines to signal other parts of the body to fight. Adaptive immune cells, meanwhile, fight against infectious agents by sticking to them. This way, they can form web-like structures. The adaptive immune system also uses these cells to identify and fight infections.
The immune system also works by dividing into two distinct subsystems. The innate immune system is responsible for fighting germs while the adaptive immune system protects the body from harmful substances. The two systems work in tandem, coordinating the response to a threat. The innate immune system produces antibodies that bind to specific antigens and cytokines control the response to an invader. These chemicals help the immune system fight off harmful substances and germs.
