Innate immune cells play a central role in protecting the body against infection. These cells are constantly on the lookout for signs of infection and quickly move to destroy any foreign invaders.
There are several types of innate immune cells, each with its own unique function. The most important of these are neutrophils, macrophages, and natural killer cells.
Neutrophils are the most common type of white blood cell and are the body’s first line of defense against infection. These cells engulf and kill bacteria, viruses, and other foreign invaders.
Macrophages are large white blood cells that destroy bacteria and other foreign invaders. They also play a vital role in activating the adaptive immune system.
Natural killer cells are a type of white blood cell that kills viruses, cancer cells, and other cells that are not functioning properly.
Innate immune cells are essential for protecting the body against infection. These cells are constantly on the lookout for signs of infection and quickly move to destroy any foreign invaders.
Without these cells, the body would be vulnerable to a range of serious and potentially deadly diseases.
A research team led by Dr. Takashi Kumari at the National Institutes of Pathology and Toxicology has discovered the central functions of innate immune cells.
Innate immune cells are the first line of defense against viral infections and play a critical role in the development of adaptive immunity.
Despite their importance, the functions of these cells have been poorly understood.
Using a novel approach, the Kumari team was able to identify the functions of two key types of innate immune cells, natural killer cells and dendritic cells.
Natural killer cells are important for clearing viruses from the body and for controlling the development of adaptive immunity.
Dendritic cells are critical for the development of both innate and adaptive immunity.
These findings provide new insight into the functions of innate immune cells and will help to design new strategies for the treatment of viral infections.
