Innate and adaptive immune cells

Innate and adaptive immune cells represent the two primary arms of the vertebrate immune system, working in concert to protect the host from pathogens and malignancy (NIH, 2023). The innate immune system, comprising cells like macrophages, neutrophils, and natural killer (NK) cells, provides a rapid, non-specific first line of defense and initiates the inflammatory response (Janeway et al., 2001). In contrast, the adaptive immune system, consisting of B cells and T cells, offers highly specific recognition of antigens and establishes long-term immunological memory (Nature Reviews Immunology, 2020). While these cells are essential for health, their dysregulation is central to various pathologies, including autoimmune disorders, chronic inflammation, and the failure of cancer immunosurveillance (PubMed, 2022). Modern pharmacology targets these cells through various modalities, such as monoclonal antibodies, small molecule inhibitors, and cell-based therapies, to either dampen overactive responses or stimulate anti-tumor activity (StatPearls, 2023).

Other names

Immune systemLeukocytesWhite blood cellsInnate and adaptive immunity

Drugs modulate these cells by targeting specific surface receptors (e.g., checkpoint inhibitors), inhibiting intracellular signaling pathways (e.g., JAK inhibitors), or neutralizing effector cytokines (e.g., TNF blockers) to either enhance or suppress immune activity (StatPearls, 2023).