Endogenous immune system

The endogenous immune system is a complex, multi-layered defense network comprising biological structures and processes that protect an organism against disease (StatPearls, 2023). It functions by distinguishing between the body's own healthy tissue and foreign substances or abnormal cells, such as pathogens and tumors (NIH NIAID, 2023). The system is broadly categorized into the innate immune system, which provides rapid but non-specific responses, and the adaptive immune system, which develops specific memory for pathogens (Wikipedia, 2024). In clinical pharmacology, the immune system is not a single target but a collection of thousands of potential molecular targets, including receptors, cytokines, and enzymes. Drugs targeting these components, such as monoclonal antibodies and small molecule inhibitors, are used to treat a vast array of pathologies, ranging from chronic inflammation and allergy to organ transplant rejection and various cancers (StatPearls, 2023). Therapeutic strategies often involve either suppressing an overactive immune response, as seen in autoimmune diseases, or stimulating the system to better recognize and eliminate malignant cells (NIH NIAID, 2023). Because of its systemic nature, modulating the immune system requires careful balance to avoid secondary effects like opportunistic infections or systemic inflammation.

Other names

Immune systemHost defense systemInnate and adaptive immune system

Immunomodulation through various pathways including cytokine inhibition, T-cell activation, and general immunosuppression (StatPearls, 2023).