Immunology and Microbiology

Immunology is the study of our protection from foreign macromolecules or invading organisms and our responses to them. These invaders include viruses, bacteria, protozoa or even larger parasites. In addition, we develop immune responses against our own proteins in autoimmunity and against our own aberrant cells in tumor immunity. The body is defended by innate immune responses, but these will only work to control pathogens that have certain molecular patterns or that induce interferons and other secreted yet non-specific defenses.