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AAT Bioquest

What are the two immune systems?

Posted July 10, 2024


Answer

The two immune systems are the innate (nonspecific) immune system and the adaptive (specific) immune system. 

The innate immune system is the body’s first line of defense against foreign pathogens. It is present at birth and offers immediate, general response to any intruder through a combination of physical barriers, inflammation, and phagocytosis. 

The adaptive immune system develops over time through exposure to pathogens and vaccinations. It produces antibodies that specifically target the infection-causing germs that it has previously encountered. 

Additional resources

The innate and adaptive immune systems

Immunohistochemistry (IHC)

iFluor® 488 PSA™ Imaging Kit with Goat Anti-Mouse IgG