Recognition – The Basis of Immunity

Šíma P., Trebichavský I.

Complex multicellular organisms require the most effective protection against pathogens. Fungi, plants and invertebrates as well as vertebrates are endowed with various receptors and sensor molecules, which precisely distinguish „self” from life-threatening „non-self”. These molecules occurring both on the surface of immunocompetent cells and in their cytoplasm specifically recognize microbial patterns. Natural (non-specific) immunity utilizes the receptors constitutively encoded in the genome. Adaptive (specific) immunity develops gradually after birth. It is induced by the encounter with alien, mainly microbial structures, and it is equipped by the very specific receptors.

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