Adoptive immunity
Adoptive immunity (pronunciation: /əˈdɒptɪv ɪˈmjuːnɪti/), also known as acquired immunity or specific immunity, is a subsystem of the overall immune system that is composed of highly specialized, systemic cells and processes that eliminate or prevent pathogen growth.
Etymology
The term "adoptive" comes from the Latin word 'adoptare', meaning 'to choose', and "immunity" comes from the Latin word 'immunitas', which refers to the protection or exemption from something. In this context, it refers to the body's ability to specifically recognize and remember an antigen, and mount a stronger and quicker immune response upon subsequent encounters with the same antigen.
Overview
Adoptive immunity is characterized by specificity for antigen and memory. The cells responsible for adoptive immunity are the lymphocytes, which come in two forms: B cells and T cells. B cells are responsible for antibody production, while T cells are responsible for a variety of other immune responses, such as killing infected cells and activating other immune cells.
Types of Adoptive Immunity
Adoptive immunity can be classified into two types:
- Active immunity: This is immunity that results from the production of antibodies by the person's own immune system in response to a direct contact with an antigen.
- Passive immunity': This is immunity that results from the acquisition of antibodies from another organism in which active immunity has been stimulated, including transfer by the placenta, through colostrum, and by injection of antiserum.
Related Terms
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Adoptive immunity
- Wikipedia's article - Adoptive immunity
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