The Innate Immune System

Question 1

How do Macrophages and Dendritic Cells detect Pathogens?

Answer 1

• They posses PRRs (Pattern Recognition Receptors)

- These PRRs recognise PAMPS (Pathogen Associated Molecular Patterns) of foreign pathogens

Question 2

Give two MAIN examples of cells possess PRRs?

Answer 2

• Macrophages
• Dendritic Cells
• Mast Cells

Question 3

What is another name for PAMPS?

Answer 3

-Signature Molecules

Question 4

What X3 Processes can Macrophages Undergo? (PEP)

Answer 4

• Pinocytosis
• Endocytosis
• Phagocytosis

Question 5

What is Endocytosis and Pinocytosis?

Answer 5

-‘Invagination’-substance brought into the cell

Pinocytosis-Is fluid form of Endocytosis

Question 6

What is Phagocytosis?

Answer 6

Pathogens are engulfed and have vesicles called lysomes. Lysomes contain digestive enzymes to breakdown the pathogens.
-One broken down debris (e.g antigens) released into extracellular fluid

Question 7

What facilitates Phagocytosis?

Answer 7

-Opsonisation

Question 8

What is Opsonisation?

Answer 8

-Is the coating of pathogens with soluble factors (peptides) called ‘Opsonins’

Question 9

How does Opsonisation enhance Phagocytosis?

Answer 9

-Marks the pathogen’s antigens so they are more easily recognised by Leukocytes

Question 10

What is Degranulation of a Mast Cell?

Answer 10

When there are danger signals expressed by PRRs of Mast cells it stimulates the release of granules from the mast cells. Histamines are released as found in the granules.

Question 11

What is Mast Cell Gene Expression?

Answer 11

-When Pro-Inflammatory mediators production is promoted

>More Mast Cells are produced