Immune processes

Immune processes" is not a specific molecule or receptor but rather refers to the collective biological activities and mechanisms carried out by the **immune system**. The immune system is a complex network composed of organs (such as the spleen and thymus), tissues (like bone marrow and lymphatic tissue), cells (including various white blood cells such as lymphocytes, macrophages, and natural killer cells), proteins (antibodies/immunoglobulins), and signaling molecules (cytokines). Its primary function is to defend the body against infections from bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, as well as abnormal cells like cancer. The immune system distinguishes between self and non-self through mechanisms such as antigen recognition via major histocompatibility complex molecules. It consists of two main subsystems—innate immunity for immediate defense and adaptive immunity for targeted responses with memory capabilities. Dysregulation can result in diseases including autoimmune disorders when it attacks healthy tissue or immunodeficiencies when it fails to protect adequately.[1][2][3][4] Because "Immune processes" does not refer to a single molecular entity but rather an entire set of physiological functions involving many different targets at multiple levels—from genes to whole organs—it cannot be classified as a therapeutic target like a receptor or enzyme. > "The immune system is the body’s tool for preventing or limiting infection... Its complex network... enables the immune system to defend the body from pathogens."[1] > "The immune system is a network of biological systems that protects an organism from diseases... detects and responds to pathogens..."[2] In summary, "Immune processes" should not be treated as an individual drug target; instead it encompasses all coordinated actions performed by components of the immune system.

Other names

Immune systemImmunological processesImmune responseImmunity