Immune Cells Archives

What Is A CD57 Cell Marker?

May 9, 2022May 17, 2022 talktick

The immune system is home to various cells, all of which have their own jobs to do when it comes to keeping the body functioning and healthy. Immune cells are broken up into several categorizations: lymphocytes, monocytes/macrophages, and neutrophils. Within the lymphocyte grouping, there are T-cells, B-cells, and natural killer cells.

T-cells are designed to start a reaction against specific pathogens, which then signals B-cells to start creating antibodies – proteins designed to help the body fight off pathogens. Natural killer cells are then tasked with activating receptors that lead to the production of small proteins that can kill the pathogen or limit its ability to spread throughout the body.

The immune system uses all of these cells to help keep you healthy. However, in some diseases or infections, levels of immune cells can change dramatically. One such cell is often negatively affected by disease: a natural killer cell known as CD57. But what is a CD57 cell marker? And how is it related to chronic illnesses such as Lyme disease?

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What Is The Role Of IgG In Immune Response?

August 23, 2021August 2, 2021 Angelica Bottaro

Each cell, protein, vitamin and nutrient in the body plays a role in how well the immune system functions, as well as the way it regulates and maintains its power to fight off harmful pathogens. Key cells and proteins that work together within the immune system include cytokines, lymphocytes, neutrophils, macrophages, complement proteins, and antibodies.

Antibodies, in particular, have special roles to play when it comes to your immunity. There are five in total, each serving a specific purpose. IgM antibodies, for example, are produced to hunt pathogens and mark them for destruction. The IgE antibody was recently found to have a role in allergies and the response of the immune system when an allergen enters the system. Certain lymphocytes called B cells rely on IgD to help produce new antibodies, and IgA is found in serum, nasal discharge, saliva, and breast milk and plays a role in maternal immunity, among other things.

The most prevalent antibody, however, is IgG. It makes up over 70% of all antibodies found in the system and is the only one that can pass through placenta, essentially protecting newborns in the womb and for a week after birth. It protects the body as a whole after being transported to blood and tissue. But what is the role of IgG in immune response, exactly?

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Is Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) The Same As Mastocytosis?

May 24, 2021May 11, 2021 Angelica Bottaro

Those who have severe allergies know all too well just how scary it can be to experience the symptoms of anaphylaxis. People at risk of this are constantly aware of their surroundings because just one thing can set off an attack. Although there are treatment options available for those who have both mild and severe allergies, it can still put a strain on daily living.

In some cases, anaphylaxis can happen to a person without them having an allergy at all. This type of condition is driven by the overaction of mast cells within the body. Mast cells are immune cells that release a substance called a mediator, which induces inflammation to help the body heal from an injury or infection. This condition is known as mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS). But what is MCAS, exactly? And is MCAS the same as mastocytosis?

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