SUMMARY OF THE INNATE IMMUNE SYSTEM

I have now described, in a very simple way, most of the elements which go to make up our non-specific (or innate) immunity.

Remember that the purpose of this part of the immune system is to destroy any foreign material which enters the body.

Note also that this system comes into action immediately from the moment that it makes contact with an invading micro-organism.

The other part of immunity - the required (or specific) immune system - may be very important for us, but it may take several days before it can produce any beneficial immune results.

This, therefore, makes the innate group of immune mechanisms vital as the 'body's first line of defence'.

Remember also that the non-specific immune systems are rather like the barbarian hordes - they will hit anybody at any time - whereas the specific immune system is regulated and co-ordinated, and its components are very particular about who they will fight.