a Explain why the immune system is considered a specific def

a. Explain why the immune system is considered a specific defense.

b. Explain why the immune system must distinguish between self and non-self.

Solution

A. There are many line of defense in our body. Immune system makes the third line of defense. This system works against specific antigens and so is considered as specific defense system. After the identification of the antigen is done the substance is released to target that antigen. These antigens can be self or foreign particles.

B. Our immune system recognizes self and non self cells by the presence of self and non self antigen on the cell surface. Self antigens are present on the cells present in the body and non self antigens are present on the cells coming from outside like bacteria, virus etc. These cells are need to be differentiated so that immune system can initiate proper function of defense against the non self cells and recognize the self cells and not initiate any immune response against them.