Chapter 16, Problem 1CF

Summary Introduction

To determine:

Whether exposure to microbes early in life affect the immune system.

Introduction:

Atopy is a genetic tendency of the body to develop allergic diseases. It is related with immune responses to common allergens. Asthma and hives is the part of the atopic allergies.

Explanation of Solution

Exposure to microbes early in life affects the immune system, because it helps the body to fight infection. An auto-immune disease is very common in the developed countries, where the prevalence of antibiotics reduce children’s exposure to microbes. Exposure to germs in childhood is helpful. It strengthens the immune system and protects the children from developing allergies and asthma.

Conclusion

Exposure to microbes early in life affects the immune system, because it strengthens the immune system to fight against infections.

Summary Introduction

To determine:

The type of cells, which is involved in the atopic response.

Introduction:

Atopy is a genetic tendency of the body to develop allergic diseases. It is related with immune responses to common allergens. Asthma and hives is the part of the atopic allergies.

Explanation of Solution

Atopy is a syndrome, which is responsible for hyperallergic responses. This disease is a hereditary component. IgE and mast cells are the type of cells, which is involved in the atopic response.

When an IgE antibody primed mast cell, it releases granules and chemical mediators, such as cytokines, histamine and many proteases into the environment. These chemical mediators are responsible for the characteristic symptoms of atopic allergy.

Conclusion

IgE and mast cells is responsible for atopic responses.