Recognition - The Basis of Immunity VI

Trebichavský I., Šíma P.

Microorganisms counteract recognition mechanisms by crypsis, camouflage, inhibitory action and disinformation. Each part of the recognition process can be inhibited or falsified by any of these. Some parasites manage to evade immunity by quickly changing their antigens. The immune system of their eukaryotic hosts copes with this strategy by using innumerable different antimicrobial factors, receptors, signalling molecules and effectors. This is the reason for the admirable complexity of immune recognition and response.

p. 264