Interferon is the substance that causes noninfected cells to form an antiviral protein. It is produced by the immune system in response to viral infections and helps neighboring cells defend against viral invaders.
Your body's most important nonspecific defense is the skin. Other nonspecific defenses include mucus, sweat, and tears.
Yes, the body's nonspecific defenses include inflammation. Inflammation is a key response to injury or infection, characterized by redness, heat, swelling, and pain. It serves to isolate and eliminate pathogens, facilitate healing, and initiate the adaptive immune response. This process is part of the innate immune system, which provides immediate, general protection against a wide range of threats.
Nonspecific
Mucus, sweat, and tears
The chief function of white blood cells is to defend the body against infections and foreign invaders, such as bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. They do this by identifying and attacking these invaders, as well as by producing antibodies to help neutralize them.
Interferons are cytokines that can enhance the activity of B cells and T cells while also enhancing nonspecific defense mechanisms in the body. Interferons help regulate the immune response against viruses and other pathogens by activating macrophages and natural killer cells.
Fever
Nonspecific immunity, also known as innate immunity, is provided by various physical and chemical barriers that protect the body from pathogens. This includes the skin and mucous membranes, which act as physical barriers, as well as secretions like saliva and tears that contain antimicrobial substances. Additionally, immune cells such as phagocytes and natural killer cells respond quickly to infections, recognizing and attacking a wide range of pathogens without the need for prior exposure. Overall, nonspecific immunity serves as the first line of defense against invaders.
Nonspecific Defenses
Soldiers
The innate immune response is the body's immediate, non-specific defense mechanism against infections. It is always ready to respond to invaders. The acquired immune response is specific to a particular pathogen and involves the production of antibodies and memory cells for long-term protection. It takes time to develop but provides a targeted defense against specific pathogens.