Difference Between Innate and Adaptive Immunity

The immune system is a combination of organs, cells, proteins and tissues. This system is responsible for protecting the body from foreign pathogens and also clearing away dead and malfunctioning cells. Currently, there are three types of immunity in humans – passive, innate, and adaptive. In this article, we shall discover the differences between innate and adaptive immunity.

Difference Between Adaptive Immunity and Innate Immunity

Innate Immunity
Adaptive Immunity
Definition
Innate immunity is general and non-specific, it is also the first line of defence against pathogens Also called acquired immunity, this type of immunity is built up as we are exposed to diseases or get vaccinated.
Line of Defence
First line of defence Second line of defence. If pathogens pass through innate immunity, then adaptive immunity kicks in.
Specificity
Non-specific Specific
Response Interval
Short/ Immediate Slower than innate
Potency/ Effectiveness
Low potency compared to adaptive immunity Highly effective against pathogens
Inheritance
Can be inherited Cannot be inherited
Memory
Cannot “remember” pathogens Adaptive immunity can “remember” past pathogens that has been encountered
Formation/ Development
Present at birth Develops over the lifespan of the individual
Distribution
Found in both vertebrates and invertebrates Exclusive to vertebrates
Components
Skin, mucous, mucous membranes, epithelial cells, phagocytes etc. Lymphoid organs that produce specialized cells called T cells and B cells
Example
A cut on the skin, if it results in swelling and inflammation, is an example of innate immunity at work. Diseases like chicken pox enable the adaptive immune system to “remember”. Hence, the likelihood of contracting the illness is greatly minimized

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Frequently Asked Questions on Innate and Adaptive Immunity

Q1

What is the difference between innate and adaptive immunity?

Innate immunity is the body’s first line of defence against pathogens. It is general and non-specific, which means it does not differentiate between types of pathogens. Adaptive immunity is a type of immunity that is built up as we are exposed to diseases or get vaccinated. It is also called acquired immunity for that reason.

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  1. Very nice and helpful for us 😊