Lesson 2.

Infection and Host Resistance

I. Introduction

Infection host resistance, also known as host defense

mechanisms, refers to the various biological
processes and mechanisms that the human body
employs to defend itself against invading pathogens,
such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. This
report will provide an overview of the key
components of infection host resistance and their
importance in protecting the host from infections.
II. Physical Barriers

1. Skin
 The skin acts as the first line of defense, a physical barrier
preventing pathogens from entering the body. The outermost
layer of the skin, the epidermis, is composed of tightly packed
cells that are difficult for pathogens to penetrate.

2. Mucous Membranes
 Mucous membranes line various entry points to the body, such as
the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. These membranes
produce mucus, which traps and expels pathogens.
III. Cellular Components

1. Phagocytes
 White blood cells, including neutrophils
and macrophages, are specialized
phagocytes that engulf and digest
pathogens. They play a crucial role in
innate immunity.

2. Natural Killer (NK) Cells

 NK cells are a type of lymphocyte that
can recognize and destroy infected or
abnormal cells, particularly those
infected with viruses.
 IV. Immune Responses
1. Innate Immunity
 The innate immune system provides
immediate but non-specific protection
against pathogens. It includes physical
barriers, cellular components, and
chemical defenses.

2. Adaptive Immunity
 The adaptive immune system, also known as acquired immunity, is a highly
specific defense mechanism. It involves the production of antibodies and memory
cells in response to a particular pathogen.
V. Chemical Defenses
1. Complement System
 A group of proteins that help the immune
system clear pathogens from the body. They
can trigger inflammation, opsonization, and
cell lysis.

2. Cytokines
 Signaling molecules that regulate the immune
response. They coordinate the activities of
immune cells and play a role in
inflammation.
VI. Role of Vaccination

Vaccination is a vital component of infection host

resistance. It involves the introduction of a harmless
form of a pathogen or a piece of it into the body to
stimulate the immune system to produce a protective
response. This allows the host to develop immunity
without becoming ill if exposed to the actual pathogen
in the future.
VII. Challenges to Infection Host
Resistance

1. Pathogen Variability
 Pathogens can evolve and adapt, making it
difficult for the host's immune system to
recognize and combat them effectively.

2. Immunodeficiency
 Conditions that weaken the immune
system, such as HIV/AIDS, can
compromise infection host resistance,
leaving the host vulnerable to infections.
VII. Challenges to Infection Host
Resistance
1. Pathogen Variability
 Pathogens can evolve and adapt, making it
difficult for the host's immune system to
recognize and combat them effectively.

2. Immunodeficiency
 Conditions that weaken the immune system,
such as HIV/AIDS, can compromise infection
host resistance, leaving the host vulnerable to
infections.
VIII. Conclusion

Infection host resistance is a complex and multifaceted system that plays a crucial role in protecting the
human body from a wide range of pathogens. Understanding the various components of host defense
mechanisms is essential for developing strategies to combat infectious diseases and maintain public
health.
Thank you