What’s the immune system?
Immunology is the study of the biological and biochemical foundations of the defense mechanisms that protect the human body from germs and toxins.
These defense mechanisms represent the immune system, which can provide immunity — possibly life-long protection.
The roles of the immune system:
- To recognize and inactivate germs (viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and worms) or toxins that have entered the body.
- To recognize and destroy somatic cells that have been infected by viruses.
- To recognize and destroy cancerous cells.
Felix Gmünder from the ETH Zurich gives a detailed presentation of the role and function of the immune system.
Introduction to biotechnology / Felix Gmünder – PDF (2,1 MB)