Immune System

A strong immune system is important to protect your body against infections, cancers, and other diseases.

Overview

Your immune system is your first line of defense against foreign invaders trying to damage your cells or organs. The immune system’s army of white blood cells are responsible for identifying threats and eliminating them from the body; neutralizing pathogens (viruses, bacteria etc.) and destroying malfunctioning cells (cancer, etc). There are several different types of immune cells involved in response and they are classified based on their mode of defense.

NK CELL

Plays a critical role in both the innate and adaptive immune response by attacking infected or abnormal cells, such as cancer cells

MACROPHAGE

Part of the innate immune response. Engulfs (phagocytosis) abnormal cells and helps initiate specific first-line defense mechanisms. Also helps shape adaptive response by antigen presentation to T cells.

T CELL

Part of the adaptive immune response. T cell receptor allows interaction with multiple factors of the innate immune response including cross-talk with antigen presenting cells (such as macrophages) and differentiation between healthy and abnormal cells via their T cell receptor. Also plays a role in shaping B cell responses

B CELL

Part of the adaptive immune response. Cells responsible for secreting antibodies

Two Main Types of Immunity

Innate Immunity

Includes Natural Killer (NK) cells
Guards the front line – Starts protecting the body immediately after initial onset
Recognizes and kills dangerous pathogens on sight – Immune surveillance
NK cells are quick to respond upon exposure to a pathogen since no activation by specific antigens is required

Adaptive Immunity

Includes B and T cells
Antibody producing white blood cells that target very specific pathogens
Requires a few days after initial onset before protecting the body
Attacks specific pathogen targets only and will not kill non-target cells on sight

Immune System Health

Your natural defense system fights to eliminate pathogens and abnormal cells from your body to keep you healthy. When you have a strong immune system, you are more likely to be better protected against infections, cancers and other diseases. However, when your immune system is weak it does not provide strong enough protection.

You can give your immune system a fighting chance by taking an active role in your health. There are many things that you can do to help your immune function such as following a proper diet, reducing stress, exercising, and resolving vitamin deficiencies. It is also important to know your NK cell activity level so you can keep track of your immune status on a regular basis. If you find your NK cell activity is low, and lifestyle changes are not significantly improving your immune function, please consult your healthcare professional.