Fundamentals of the Immune System

Hey Wolfpack! As many of you may know, there is an invisible army within you that is always ready to protect you from the germs. Let’s learn about this army and what it does.

Our immune system is a complex network of cells, organs and proteins that work together to protect our body from harmful pathogens such as viruses or bacteria. In addition to preventing pathogens from entering, the immune system also destroys these harmful invaders if they do happen to enter the body. 

The key soldiers of our immune system are: 

• White Blood Cells (WBCs): Also known as leukocytes, are often referred to as the “soldiers” of the immune system. They are produced in the bone marrow and play an important role in fighting and destroying the bacteria. 
• Antibodies: These are specialized proteins that detect foreign pathogens by recognizing specific molecules known as antigens, which are found on the surface of microbes. Once an antibody binds to an antigen, it signals for the destruction of the pathogen or toxin.
• Organs and Tissues: The lymphatic system, spleen, and bone marrow are vital parts of the immune system. Together these organs play a key role in immune defense by producing antibodies and lymphocytes, which help identify and neutralize pathogens and fight infections.

 

“But how does the immune system work,” you might be wondering? There are two main defense strategies used by our immune system:

• Innate Immunity: This is the body’s first line of defense, present from birth. It consists of physical barriers such as the skin, the cornea of the eyes, and the mucous membranes that line the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary tracts. These barriers work together to protect the body from harmful pathogens. The innate immune system is inherited and provides the initial protection against infections.
• Adaptive Immunity: Adaptive immunity develops over the course of a person’s life and strengthens through vaccination, or with exposure to various pathogens. When the immune system is exposed to a disease or a vaccine, it produces memory cells (T and B cells) that remember how to fight that specific pathogen in the future, leading to faster and more effective immune system responses. This adaptability makes adaptive immunity a key part of long-term protection against infections and also acts as the basis for why vaccines are effective.

Besides bacterial and viral infections there are several other conditions that can interfere with the normal functioning of the immune system. Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to typically harmless substances, triggering an immune response that can be life-threatening. Autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, happen when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells. A weak immune system makes individuals more vulnerable to infections and illnesses. While on the other hand, an overactive immune system can lead to problems such as autoimmune diseases or allergic reactions. Hence, why it is critical to have a balanced healthy immune system.


Maintaining a healthy immune system as a busy college student involves making mindful choices about nutrition, sleep, and stress management.

Understanding how it works and taking steps to support it can help you stay healthy throughout your college years. By eating right, staying active, getting enough sleep, and managing stress, you’ll keep your immune system strong and ready to protect you from whatever comes your way.

References 

How to Eat Healthy as a College Student (At Home)
Immune system explained
The Immune System

Author

Siddharth Maruvada –  Siddharth is a Pack Peer and Park Scholar in the class of 2028 majoring in Biochemistry. He’s passionate about promoting immune health and raising awareness about the importance of maintaining a strong immune system for overall wellness.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please contact NC State Campus Health or your healthcare provider with questions regarding medical health, or changes to your diet, exercise routine, or treatment plan. The content is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical condition.