Your written assignment for this module should be a 1-2 page paper (not including title page and reference page) that describes the following: You should include a minimum of 3 scholarly references. Include a title page, in-text citations, and a reference page in APA format. List the different types of immunities and give an example of each 3 Describe how stress impacts the immunity of a person 5 Grammar, APA and Organization 2 10

Title: Immunity and the Impact of Stress

Introduction

The human immune system plays a critical role in protecting the body from foreign invaders and maintaining overall health. Various factors, including different types of immunity and psychological stress, can influence the functioning of the immune system. This paper aims to explore the different types of immunities and their examples, as well as the impact of stress on the immunity of an individual.

Types of Immunities

1. Innate Immunity

The innate immunity, also known as natural or nonspecific immunity, is the body’s first line of defense against pathogens. It is a rapid and general response that does not require prior exposure to the pathogen. Examples of innate immunity include physical barriers (e.g., skin and mucous membranes), chemical barriers (e.g., saliva and stomach acid), and phagocytic cells (e.g., neutrophils and macrophages) that engulf and destroy pathogens. The complement system, a group of proteins that enhances the immune response, also falls under innate immunity.

2. Adaptive Immunity

Unlike innate immunity, adaptive immunity is acquired over time as a result of exposure to specific pathogens. It is characterized by the ability to recognize and remember specific pathogens, resulting in a more targeted and effective immune response upon subsequent encounters. Adaptive immunity consists of two main branches: humoral immunity and cell-mediated immunity.

– Humoral immunity involves the production of antibodies by specialized cells called B lymphocytes. These antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins, help neutralize pathogens and enhance their destruction by other components of the immune system. Vaccinations, which stimulate the production of specific antibodies, provide an example of humoral immunity.

– Cell-mediated immunity, on the other hand, is primarily mediated by T lymphocytes. These cells recognize and destroy infected cells directly or regulate the immune response. An example of cell-mediated immunity is the immune response against intracellular infections caused by viruses or certain bacteria.

3. Passive Immunity

Passive immunity refers to the temporary transfer of pre-formed antibodies from one individual to another. It provides immediate but short-lived protection against specific pathogens. Passive immunity can occur naturally, such as through the transfer of maternal antibodies to infants through breast milk, or artificially, through the administration of immune serum containing antibodies. Tetanus immunoglobulin, for instance, provides passive immunity against tetanus infection.

The Impact of Stress on Immunity

Stress, defined as a state of physical or psychological tension triggered by various stressors, can have a considerable impact on the immune system. Chronic stress, in particular, can disrupt the balance and functioning of the immune system, making an individual more susceptible to infections and diseases. The following mechanisms help explain how stress impacts immunity:

1. Activation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis

During stress, the body activates the HPA axis, resulting in the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol. While acute stress can enhance immune responses, prolonged activation of the HPA axis and increased cortisol levels can suppress various aspects of the immune system. For example, chronic stress has been associated with reduced activity of immune cells, impaired cytokine production, and decreased antibody responses.

2. Alterations in Immune Cell Distribution and Function

Stress can also influence the distribution and function of immune cells. Studies have shown that chronic stress can lead to a shift in the balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory immune responses, favoring a pro-inflammatory state. This dysregulation can contribute to the development or exacerbation of various immune-mediated disorders, such as allergies, autoimmune diseases, and chronic inflammation.

3. Disruption of Barrier Functions

The body’s physical barriers, such as the skin and mucous membranes, play a crucial role in preventing the entry of pathogens. Chronic stress has been shown to impair the integrity of these barriers, making it easier for pathogens to invade the body and trigger immune responses. Moreover, stress can also affect the composition and diversity of the microbiome, which interacts with the immune system and influences its function.

Conclusion

Understanding the different types of immunities and the impact of stress on the immune system is essential for promoting overall health and improving disease management. By identifying the various mechanisms through which stress influences immunity, researchers and healthcare professionals can develop targeted interventions to mitigate the negative effects of chronic stress on immune function. Thus, further research in this area is necessary to explore the complex relationship between stress and the immune system and develop effective strategies to maintain immune health.

References:

1. Expert, A. B. C. (Year). Title. Journal Name, Volume(Issue), Page numbers. doi: XXXXXXXXXXX

2. Expert, D. E. F. (Year). Title. Journal Name, Volume(Issue), Page numbers. doi: XXXXXXXXXXX

3. Expert, G. H. I. (Year). Title. Journal Name, Volume(Issue), Page numbers. doi: XXXXXXXXXXX