24 concise topics with brief reviews: definitions, key facts, and class questions.
The section "Study of Immunity" covers the fundamental defense mechanisms of the body. Here we examine how the immune system distinguishes "self" from "non-self", which organs and cells are responsible for this, and how genetics controls antibody production.
The material is structured logically: from basic concepts to complex cascading processes. You will study the structure of antigens (including superantigens and the major histocompatibility complex), clusters of differentiation, and examine innate and acquired immunity in detail. Special attention is paid to cellular and humoral factors: phagocytosis, receptors, functions of T- and B-lymphocytes, and specific immunoglobulins.
During seminars and exams, instructors are strictest about the dynamics of the immune response, the mechanisms of immunological tolerance formation, and the pathogenesis of hypersensitivity reactions (strictly covering all four types). Understanding these topics is your ticket not only to passing microbiology successfully, but also to clinical practice.
This is a mature immune cell that has emerged from the central organs (bone marrow or thymus), has undergone antigen-independent differentiation, but has not yet encountered a real foreign antigen.
What is the fundamental difference between central and peripheral organs of the immune system?
In central organs, cell differentiation occurs independently of the antigen. In peripheral organs, final maturation and initiation of the immune response occur only after encountering a foreign agent.
What is antigenic mimicry?
This is a mechanism by which a microorganism synthesizes antigens structurally similar to host tissues. As a result, the immune system is activated against the infection, but cross-attacks its own organs as well, causing autoimmune diseases.
Where are MHC class I molecules located and where are they absent?
They are present on the membranes of all nucleated cells. Exceptions are erythrocytes, neurons, and villous trophoblast cells.
Does a superantigen require processing in an antigen-presenting cell?
No. Unlike conventional antigens, superantigens do not undergo intracellular processing (cleavage) in APCs and bind to receptors in their initial, native form.
Can the T-helper marker (CD4) be detected on non-lymphoid cells?
Yes, in addition to T-helper cells, the CD4 molecule is also expressed on the surface of monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells, and in some cases, tumor cells.
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