Immune System

One study performed in 1973 showed that white blood cells from individuals who had consumed 100 grams of sugar (about 20 teaspoons) were less active. This study has been cited for many years as evidence that sugar suppresses the immune system, by no less than the famous pediatrician Dr. Sears.

However, no studies have since proven that individuals who consume more sugar actually get more colds or flu. The way the body fights disease is extremely complex and the effects of sugar consumption on the immune system have not been definitively identified. The scientific consensus seems to be that eating a healthy, balanced diet and maintaining normal weight is the best way to sustain overall well-being, including reducing susceptibility to illness. There is little to no evidence that eating a candy bar or drinking a Coke will cause you to be acutely susceptible to disease.

http://nutrition.about.com/b/2009/10/05/does-sugar-really-hurt-your-immune-system.htm
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/painter/2009-10-04-your-health_N.htm

Yes, the described condition is most likely multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system where the body's immune system mistakenly targets the myelin sheath covering nerve fibers. This can lead to disruptions in communication between the brain and the rest of the body, resulting in a variety of symptoms such as numbness, weakness, and fatigue. Early detection and proper management can help slow down disease progression and manage symptoms effectively.

The immune system detects antigens which can be proteins, lipids, or carbohydrates displayed on the surface of cells. In terms of membrane proteins, the immune system detects antigens presented by major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins on the surface of cells to distinguish between self and non-self molecules.

Cytotoxic T cells are a type of cell that destroys body cells infected with microbes. They recognize infected cells by detecting specific antigens on their surface and then release toxic substances to kill the infected cell.

Yes, enzymes are proteins that act as biological catalysts, speeding up chemical reactions in the cell without needing high temperatures. They work by lowering the activation energy required for a reaction to occur, thereby increasing the rate at which the reaction proceeds.

Bacteria can be both pathogenic and non-pathogenic depending on their characteristics and the host's immune response. Pathogenic bacteria have virulence factors that allow them to infect and cause disease in a host, while non-pathogenic bacteria do not possess these virulence factors and typically live harmlessly in the host or environment. The distinction between pathogenic and non-pathogenic bacteria lies in their ability to cause disease in a susceptible host.

Non-pathogenic diseases are conditions that do not result from an infectious agent (such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites) and do not cause harm to the host. These diseases may be genetic, autoimmune, or related to environmental factors, but they do not involve the invasion or colonization of the body by harmful microorganisms.

Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules are located on the cell surface of a cell. They are expressed on the plasma membrane, presenting peptides to T cells for immune recognition and response.

Non-pathogenic organisms are not harmful to humans and do not cause disease. Some non-pathogenic bacteria can even be beneficial, such as those found in the gut that aid in digestion.

The cell membrane supervises the substances entering and exiting the cell. It is selectively permeable and regulates the passage of molecules in and out of the cell through active or passive transport mechanisms.

Proteins are especially important because they serve a wide range of functions in the body, including cell signaling, immune response, and as catalysts for enzyme activity. Their diverse roles make them vital for maintaining proper physiological functions and processes.

Proteins are involved in cell signaling by transmitting signals within cells, participating in the immune response by recognizing and neutralizing pathogens, and facilitating enzyme activity by catalyzing chemical reactions. Overall, proteins play critical roles in the functioning of living organisms.

An individual with a compromised immune system may struggle to fight off infections because their body is unable to properly recognize and destroy pathogens. This can be due to conditions such as HIV/AIDS, certain cancers, or immunosuppressive medications. Without a fully functional immune response, their body is at higher risk of being overwhelmed by harmful pathogens, leading to severe illness and even death.

Mononucleosis (mono) typically causes an increase in white blood cells, leading to inflammation and enlargement of the lymph nodes, spleen, and liver. This disrupts the balance of the immune system, affecting the body's ability to maintain homeostasis. Symptoms like fatigue, fever, and sore throat can further challenge the body's equilibrium.

Stem cell therapy for hair has shown promising results in promoting hair growth and treating hair loss. However, like any medical procedure, there can be potential risks and side effects. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to discuss the safety and potential benefits of stem cell therapy for hair in your specific case.

Natural killer (NK) cells are nonspecific lymphocytes that play a crucial role in killing tumor cells and virus-infected cells. They are part of the innate immune system and can quickly identify and destroy abnormal cells without the need for prior exposure.

"B cells" are named after the Bursa of Fabricius where they were first discovered in birds. The Bursa of Fabricius is an organ in birds that is involved in the development of B cells. The "B" stands for "bursa-dependent" in reference to this organ.

If anti-B antibodies (from someone who is blood type A or AB) are mixed with group B red cells, agglutination or clumping of red cells will occur due to a reaction between the antibodies and the B antigen on the red cells. This can lead to transfusion reactions if incompatible blood is transfused, causing harm to the recipient.

Pathogens can increase their virulence through genetic mutations, acquisition of new virulence factors, suppression of host immune responses, or improved adaptation to host environment. This may result in enhanced ability to invade host tissues, evade immune detection, or cause more severe disease.

White blood cells called neutrophils are primarily responsible for killing bacteria in the body. Neutrophils are a type of phagocyte that engulfs and destroys invading bacteria through a process called phagocytosis. They are a crucial part of the immune system's defense against bacterial infections.

Yes, MHC class I proteins are found on most nucleated cells in the body. They play a key role in presenting endogenous antigens to cytotoxic T cells for immune surveillance and response.

Mediators of humoral immunity include antibodies, which are produced by B cells and circulate in the bloodstream. These antibodies can recognize and bind to specific antigens, marking them for destruction by other immune cells. In addition, cytokines released by activated B cells and helper T cells help regulate the immune response and stimulate antibody production.

T cell response is critical for immune defense against infections and cancer. However, dysregulation of T cell responses can lead to autoimmune diseases or hypersensitivity reactions. Modulation of T cell responses is an important target for therapeutic interventions in various diseases.

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.

A pathogen can enter a new reservoir through various routes, such as direct contact with infected animals or consumption of contaminated food or water. Once in the new reservoir, the pathogen may adapt to the new host species and establish infection cycles within that population.