ANESTHESIOLOGY FAST REVIEW

ANESTHESIOLOGY_FAST_REVIEWKAPAK1-0-25

IMMUNE SYSTEM PHYSIOLOGY

Ayşe Gizem Saraçoğlu

Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, Department of Anesthesiology and Reanimation, Ankara, Türkiye

Saraçoğlu AG. Immune System Physiology. In: Kazancı D, editor. Anesthesiology Fast Review. 1st ed. Ankara: Türkiye Klinikleri; 2025. p.79-89.

ABSTRACT

  • The immune system is a sophisticated defense mechanism that safeguards the body against infections, maintains homeostasis, and facilitates tissue repair.
  • It consists of two main components: innate immunity, which provides a rapid but nonspecific response, and adaptive immunity, known for its high specificity and builds long-term memory.
  • Innate immunity relies on cells like macrophages, dendritic cells, and neutrophils, along with signaling molecules such as cytokines.
  • Adaptive immunity involves T and B lymphocytes, which recognize antigens and generate targeted immune responses.
  • One of the primary functions of the immune system is to differentiate between the body’s own cells and foreign invaders, thereby preventing autoimmune diseases.
  • It continuously adapts to combat various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
  • The immune system also contributes to identifying and eliminating cancerous cells, thereby inhibiting tumor development.
  • Aging weakens immune defenses through immunosenescence, leading to increased infection risk and reduced vaccine effectiveness.
  • Immunosuppressive treatments, used for autoimmune conditions and organ transplants, can lower the body’s capacity to combat infections and cancer.
  • A deeper understanding of immune mechanisms helps in developing better therapies for infectious diseases, cancer, and immune disorders.

Keywords: Immune system; Immunity, innate; Adaptive Immunity; Autoimmune Diseases; Immunotherapy

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