Explain the difference between innate (nonspecific) defenses and adaptive (specific) defenses.

Human Anatomy & Physiology (11th Edition)
11th Edition
ISBN:9780134580999
Author:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
Publisher:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
Chapter1: The Human Body: An Orientation
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Explain the difference between innate (nonspecific) defenses and adaptive (specific) defenses.

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The body of higher organisms has the ability to fight back and defend itself against the destructive actions of infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, and other microbes. This defense is regulated by the body’s immune system.

 

 

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  • The innate or the non-specific defense system provides protection against every pathogen entering the body and is not related to any particular pathogen. In contrast, specific or adaptive defense systems provide protection against a specific pathogen only.
  • The innate defense response is present within the body since birth and is not dependent on antigens, whereas the adaptive defense response develops within the body after birth and is dependent on antigens.
  • The innate defense forms the initial defense line, and its effectiveness is not affected by repetitive pathogen attacks. In contrast, the adaptive defense forms the second defense line, and its effectiveness is enhanced by the repetitive attack of a particular pathogen.
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