Description: Immunity is the ability of an organism to resist infections or diseases, thanks to a complex defense system that includes specialized cells, tissues, and organs. This immune system is activated in response to the presence of pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi, and is responsible for recognizing and eliminating these threats. Immunity can be innate, which is the body’s natural defense from birth, or acquired, which develops over a lifetime through exposure to various infectious agents or through vaccination. Immune memory is a key feature, as it allows the body to remember previously encountered pathogens, facilitating a faster and more effective response upon future exposures. Immunity not only protects the individual but also plays a crucial role in public health, as herd immunity can prevent the spread of diseases within the population. In summary, immunity is a vital process that ensures the survival of organisms against various biological threats.
History: The concept of immunity dates back to ancient times, but it was in the 19th century that the scientific foundations of immunology were established. Louis Pasteur, in the 1880s, developed the first vaccine against rabies, marking a milestone in the history of immunization. Since then, numerous advances have been made in understanding the immune system, including the discovery of antibodies and the identification of different types of immune cells. In the 20th century, immunology solidified as a scientific discipline, with the development of vaccines for diseases such as polio and smallpox, leading to the eradication of some of these diseases.
Uses: Immunity has multiple applications in medicine and public health. Vaccines are one of the most effective tools for preventing infectious diseases, as they stimulate the immune system to recognize and combat specific pathogens. Additionally, immunotherapy is used in the treatment of certain types of cancer, where the patient’s immune response is enhanced to attack tumor cells. Research is also being conducted on the use of immunity in autoimmune diseases and in improving organ transplants, where the goal is to minimize graft rejection.
Examples: A practical example of immunity is the annual flu vaccination, which is recommended to protect the population from changing viral strains. Another case is the use of monoclonal antibodies in cancer treatments, where specific antibodies are designed to target cancer cells. Additionally, herd immunity is observed in communities where a high percentage of the population is vaccinated, reducing the spread of diseases such as measles.
