Immunology Research

Research in immunology seeks to elucidate the form and function of organismal defense mechanisms. Immunity, defined as a physiological response to foreign agents aimed at maintaining homeostasis, is mediated by a complex array of humoral (e.g., secreted antibodies and complement) and cellular mechanisms which have been classified under innate or adaptive immunity. Innate immunity is rapidly activated following exposure to foreign agents (e.g., bacteria and viruses), and represents a first line of defense, but lacks specificity. In contrast, adaptive immunity is engaged at a later time and involves receptors with the capacity to rearrange and recognize an almost infinite number of non-self antigens.

Table of Contents

• Immunology Disease Types 
• Immunology Research Areas
• Immunology Targets 
• Products and Services
• Immunology Resources & Tools
• Background and FAQs

Immune responses are effected by distinct subsets of cellular mediators. Innate mediators express receptors that recognize foreign molecular patterns, allowing the rapid targeting of pathogens (e.g., by phagocytosis). In comparison to innate responses, engagement of adaptive immunity occurs with a delay, but B and T cell receptors allow the identification of a broad diversity of antigens, making adaptive responses highly specific.

Extensive cross talk, via both humoral and cellular mediators, occurs between these two immune modalities. While innate immunity lacks memory and therefore is unable to improve with experience, the ability of innate cells to stimulate and modulate adaptive responses (e.g., through antigen presentation) makes this branch of immunity essential for mounting an effective response.