The Immune System

Innate immune system The innate response is triggered when microbes are identified by certain receptors

or when damaged, injured or stressed cells send out alarm signals.

Innate immune defenses are non-specific, meaning these systems respond in a generic way.

This system does not confer long-lasting immunity against pathogens.

The innate immune system is the dominant system of host defense in most organisms.

Surface barriers: ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Skin ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mucus membranes ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Normal flora

Maintaining healthy skin, production of mucous in the respiratory, digestive and urinary tracts is an essential first line of defense against all infections.

Newborn infants have no prior exposure to microbes and are particularly vulnerable to infection. Several layers of passive protection are provided by the mother.

During pregnancy, a particular type of antibody (IgG) is transported from mother to baby directly across the placenta. Human babies have high levels of antibodies even at birth, with the same range of antigen specificities as their mother.

Breast milk (especially colostrom- "first milk") also contains antibodies that are transferred to the gut of the infant and protect against bacterial infections until the newborn can synthesize its own antibodies.

This passive immunity is usually short-term, lasting from a few days up to several months.

In medicine, protective passive immunity can also be transferred artificially from one individual to another via transfusion of antibody-rich serum.

Neutrophils and macrophages are phagocytes that travel throughout the body in pursuit of invading pathogens.&nbsp;

Neutrophils, normally found in the bloodstream, are the most abundant type of phagocyte. They are usually 50% to 60% of the total circulating white blood cells.

In acute inflammation, and especially when it's as a result of bacterial infection, neutrophils migrate toward the site of inflammation. This is called chemotaxis.

Neutrophils are usually the first cells to arrive at the scene of infection.

Basophils and eosinophils are related to neutrophils. They secrete chemicals that are involved in defending against parasite and play a role in allergic reactions, such as asthma.

Complement system

The complement system gets activated when complement binds to antibodies that have attached to microbes or to carbohydrates on the surfaces of microbes.

This recognition signal triggers a rapid killing response.

After complement proteins initially bind to the microbe, they activate their protease activity, which in turn activates other complement proteases, and so on. This produces a catalytic cascade that amplifies the initial signal by controlled positive feedback. 

The cascade results in peptide production that attracts immune cells, increases vascular permeability and coats the surface of the pathogen (opsonizes it), which marks it for destruction. Complement can also kill cells directly by disrupting their plasma membrane.

The immune system consists of biological structures and processes within an organism that protect against disease.

To function properly, an immune system must detect a wide variety of agents, known as pathogens. 

Pathogens can be things like; viruses, bacteria, fungus, and parasites.

The immune system must distinguish between these invaders and from the organism's own healthy tissue.

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Acquired Immune Deficiencies Immunodeficiencies can also be inherited or acquired. Chronic granulomatous disease: This occurs where phagocytes have reduced ability to destroy pathogens. Medication, radiation and chronic infection with certain viruses can also cause depletion of immune function. Treatment: -Advanced treatment to fight infections (antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, anti-parasitics) more frequent and earlier -Nutrients, herbs diet and lifestyle changes to improve other aspects of the immune system. -If severe, immunoglobulin therapy may be necessary.

Natural Ways to Boost Your Immune System

Prevention: wash your *** and hands. (Hygiene) Get adequate sleep. Balance stress with relaxation Eat a healthy diet:&nbsp;live, unprocessed foods Movement- Maintaining an active lifestyle Test for, eliminate and treat allergies Steps to take with onset of acute infections: Reduce sugar and simple carbohydrate intake— eliminate ALL sugar at first sign of illness. Hydrate-&nbsp;Adequate clean water and electrolytes.

Helper T cells must be bound to antigen at a very very high concentration and for a relatively long time in order to activate. 

But when this does occur -the cytokine release can influence the activity of many cell types. Such as enhancing the microbiocidal function of macrophages and increasing the activity of killer T cells.

The immune system protects us from infection with layers of defenses, which become increasingly specific. First, physical barriers prevent pathogens from entering our bodies.

If an organism breaches these barriers, the next layer of defense, the innate immune system is ready and waiting. This provides an immediate, but non-specific response.

If pathogens are lucky or clever enough to escape the innate response, we have another more targeted layer of protection, the adaptive immune system.

Autoimmunity At the other end of the immune dysfunction spectrum is the overactivity of autoimmunity. Here, the immune system fails to properly distinguish between self and non-self, and attacks part of the body. One of the functions of specialized cells (located in the thymus and bone marrow) is to present young lymphocytes with self antigens produced throughout the body and to eliminate those cells that recognize self-antigens, preventing autoimmunity.

Autoimmune reactions can attack organs or specific proteins in the body: Diseases resulting from attacks on specific organs : -Grave’s disease—hyperactive thyroid -Celiac disease—small intestine -Crohn’s Disease—small intestine -Ulcerative Colitis—colon -Type 1 Diabetes—pancreas islet cells Attacks on specific proteins: -Rheumatoid Arthritis -Systemic Lupus -Ankylosing Spondylitis -Other connective tissue diseases

Don’t Stop the Immune System from Doing it’s Job

&nbsp;A fever is an important part of the immune system defense in killing pathogens. Mucus traps pathogens for immune system attack and carries them out of the body.&nbsp; Coughing helps rid the body of the infected mucus. Vomiting and diarrhea are the body’s way of ridding itself of pathogens.

Antibiotics Using antibiotics for every illness keeps the immune system from activating its full defense, and over time weakens the immune system. Antibiotics are not that discriminating. They will destroy non-pathogenic and potentially beneficial organisms as well. Clear cutting the microbial forests. Antibiotics are not useful in fighting viral infections.

B lymphocytes &amp; antibodies A B cell identifies a pathogen when antibodies on its surface bind to a specific foreign antigen.

This antigen/antibody complex is taken up by the B cell, processed and then displayed on its surface (by MHC class II molecules). This combination of MHC and antigen attracts a matching helper T cell, which releases lymphokines to activate the B cell to divide. It secretes millions of copies of the antibody that recognizes the antigen in it's offspring. These antibodies circulate the blood, bind to pathogens expressing the antigen and mark them for destruction by complement activation, or uptake and destruction by phagocytes. Antibodies can also neutralize challenges directly, by binding to bacterial toxins or by interfering with the receptors that viruses and bacteria use to infect cells. An antibody is made up of two heavy chains and two light chains. The unique variable region allows an antibody to recognize its matching antigen.

Cellular barriers Leukocytes (white blood cells) act like independent, single-celled organisms and are the second arm of the innate immune system. The innate leukocytes include the phagocytes (macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells) mast cells, eosinophils, basophils and natural killer cells.

These cells identify and eliminate pathogens, either by attacking larger pathogens through contact or by engulfing and then killing microorganisms. Innate cells also activate the adaptive immune system.

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Signs of a functioning Immune System

*Fever *Mucous production *Cough *Nausea *Diarrhea

Support for our Immune Systems

*Lifestyle considerations *Diet changes *Supplements -nutrient &amp; herbal considerations *Hydrotherapy

*Autoimmune *Immunodeficiencies *Allergies

Molecular Mimicry: Microbes are identified by the immune system.&nbsp;Many mimic specific proteins in the body, resulting in the immune system attacking not only the microbe, but body tissue. •&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Yersinia enterocolitica lays eggs in the GI tract and the surface proteins on the eggs are similar to thyroid tissue, which can trigger Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. •&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Various types of Mycoplasma bacteria have been found in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, Lupus and other connective tissue diseases, as well as Chronic Fatigue/Fibromyalgia Syndrome. •&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proteus in the urinary tract has been shown to trigger RA. •&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Chlamydia pneumonia, HHV 6, EBV, Lyme, Herpes Simplex virus, H. Pylori have been shown to trigger Multiple Sclerosis, Alzheimer’s, ALS, other neurological problems. •&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;H. Pylori, Lyme shown associated with Grave’s disease.

The adaptive system is put on notice when the innate immune system activates.

The adaptive response creates memory cells, which improves recognition of the pathogen.

The adaptive immune system will then mount faster and stronger attacks each time this pathogen is encountered.

The adaptive response holds a memory of previous attacks from organisms in the same family as the current invader.

Lymphocytes The adaptive immune system has specialized types of leukocytes, called lymphocytes.

B cells and T cells: which carry receptor molecules that recognize specific targets.

T cells are involved in the cell-mediated immune response. T cells recognize a "non-self" target, such as a pathogen, only after antigens (small fragments of the pathogen) have been processed and presented in combination with a "self" receptor (MHC) molecule.

There are two major subtypes of T cells: Killer T cells and Helper T cells. Killer T cells -recognize Class I MHC and Helper T cells -recognize Class II MHC

B cells are lymphocytes that are involved in the humoral immune response.

Natural Treatments for Allergies Balanced mineral supplements for immune support. Quercitin 500 mg—can stabilize overactive mast cells. Reduces histamine release. Butterbur— Raw, unfiltered local honey Green tea, chamomile, ginger, peppermint teas Stinging nettle herbal tincture or tea Neti Pot; salt water nasal irrigation Acupuncture for constitutional treatment Acupressure—along nose and under eyes Work with a holistic doctor to identify allergy load and work on your individual plan to reduce allergic responses.

Disorders of human immunity The immune system is a remarkably effective structure that incorporates specificity, inducability and adaptation.

Failure of this system does occur. 3 general categories of immune disorders: -immunodeficiencies, -autoimmunity, and -hypersensitivity.

Another important strategy in the innate immunity is phagocytosis. Phagocytosis probably represents the oldest form of host defense.

Cells called 'phagocytes' eat up pathogens and particles. They generally patrol around the body searching for their 'food', but they can also be call to specific locations by cytokines.

Once a pathogen has been engulfed by a phagocyte, it is trapped in a 'phagosome', which is a type of intracellular compartment (vesicle). It is then digested by the cell through use of enzymes or free radicals.

*Phagocytosis evolved as a means of acquiring nutrients, but this role was extended in phagocytes to include engulfment of pathogens as a defense mechanism.

Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases

Functional Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases *Replacement hormones (Insulin, Thyroid) -does not treat underlying cause *Test for and remove toxins *Test for and remove and treat allergens, especially gluten and dairy *Test for and treat chronic or lingering subacute infections *Anti-inflammatory diet and intermittent fasting *Recognize and treat stress and emotional trauma *Immunotherapy

Conventional Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases: Anti-inflammatory drugs: aspirin, ibuprofen, indomethacin, Celebrex, etc. Side effects: Intestinal bleeding, liver and kidney damage, congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, gut dysbiosis, Suppress the immune system. Monitor and manage the higher risk of cancer and opportunistic infections that result.

CONTENTS

*Skin *Mucous *Flora

*Inflammation *Complement *Cell Barriers *Natural Killer cells

*Lymphocytes *Killer T cells *Helper T cells *Antibodies

Killer T cells are cells that kill viral or other pathogen infected cells.

Each type of T cell recognizes a different antigen. 

Killer T cells are activated when their T cell receptor (TCR) binds to this specific antigen in a complex with the MHC Class I receptor of another cell.

Recognition of this MHC:antigen complex is aided by a co-receptor on the T cell, called CD8.

The activated T cell travels through the body in search of cells where the MHC I receptors bears this antigen. When it makes contact -it releases cytotoxins which damage and kill the infected cell.

T cell killing of host cells is particularly important in preventing the replication of viruses.

Complement system The complement system is a biochemical cascade that attacks the surfaces of foreign cells.

Complement is the major 'humoral component' of the innate immune response.

It contains over 20 different proteins and is named for its ability to "complement" the killing of pathogens by antibodies. 

Many species have complement systems, including non-mammals -like plants, fish, and some invertebrates. 

Dendritic cells are phagocytes located mainly in the skin, nose, lungs, stomach and intestines, in tissues that are in contact with the external environment.

Dendritic cells serve as a link between the bodily tissues and the innate and adaptive immune systems. They present antigens to T-cells (one of the key cell types of the adaptive immune system).

Mast cells live in the connective tissues and mucous membranes.

They regulate the inflammatory response. They are most often associated with allergies and anaphylaxis.&nbsp;

Supplements to consider: (YMMV) More is not always better. Please consult your holistic physician to determine which or at what dose you should be taking any supplements. Vitamin D3 Fish oil Vitamin C&nbsp;&nbsp; Transfer Factor/Colostrum Propolis (from bees)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Peppermint&nbsp; Yarrow&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Mushroom extracts Resveratrol Astralagus Olive leaf extract&nbsp;&nbsp; Elderberry/Elder flower Oregano Oil -Can be very potent anti-microbial -use with same caution as antibiotics. Iodine

Inflammation Inflammation is one of the first responses of the immune system to infection.&nbsp;The symptoms of inflammation are redness, swelling, heat, and pain, which are caused by increased blood flow into tissue.

Inflammation is produced by eicosanoids and cytokines , which are released by injured or infected cells.

Eicosanoids include prostaglandins that produce fever and dilation of blood vessels and leukotrienes that attract certain white blood cells (leukocytes).

Cytokines are responsible for communication between white blood cells. These include: -chemokines, which promote 'chemotaxis' -interferons which have anti-viral effects (shutting down protein synthesis in host cells) .

Growth factors and other factors may also be released to promote healing of any damaged tissue following the removal of pathogens.

For an updated list on Winter 2019 recommended supplements: <a href="https://us.fullscript.com/protocols/hmalus-updated-winter-2019-immune-support">See my Fullscript Protocols.</a> For updates to this topic and future content similar to this e-book please <a href="http://malushealth.org/resources">subscribe</a>: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MalusHealthOrg/">Facebook. </a> for comments, questions, concerns email: info@malushealth.org

Hypersensitivity (Allergies) Hypersensitivity is an immune response that damages the body's own tissues.

They are divided into four classes (Type I&nbsp;– IV) based on the mechanisms involved and the time course of the hypersensitive reaction. Inhalant allergies (pollens, dust, mold, animal allergies) and some food allergies are usually a Type I reaction with histamine release and are fairly immediate.

Many food allergies are a Type II reaction with a slower reaction and different symptoms related to any system in the body: intestinal (most common), nervous system, inflammation, etc.

Causes of Autoimmune Diseases -Genetic susceptibility -Viruses can alter the behavior of a cell -Bacterial infection related inflammation -Environmental toxins -Leaky gut -Physical and/or emotional trauma The Infection Connection -Infectious diseases are rapidly increasing -Lyme disease is the fasted growing infection in the U.S. and possibly the world. -Viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi stimulate the immune system -Infections can be transmitted by insects, blood transfusions, human-to-human contact, etc. -Our modern lifestyles combined with increasing toxicity results in compromised immune system function -At no time in history has the human immune system had to deal with so many stressors

Active memory and immunization

Long-term active memory is acquired following infection by activation of B and T cells.

Active immunity can also be generated artificially, through vaccination. Vaccination (also called immunization) is a process of introducing an antigen from a pathogen in order to stimulate the immune system to develop specific immunity against that particular pathogen without causing the disease associated with that organism. This deliberate induction of an immune response is successful because it exploits the natural specificity of the immune system. With infectious disease remaining one of the leading causes of death in the human population, vaccination represents the most effective manipulation of the immune system mankind has developed.

Adaptive immune system The adaptive immune system evolved in early vertebrates and allows for a stronger immune response as well as immunological memory, where each pathogen is "remembered" by a signature antigen. The adaptive immune response is antigen-specific and requires the recognition of specific "non-self" antigens. Antigen specificity allows for the generation of responses that are tailored to specific pathogens or pathogen-infected cells. The ability to mount these tailored responses is maintained in the body by "memory cells". Should a pathogen infect the body more than once, these specific memory cells are used to quickly eliminate it.

Immunological memory

When B cells and T cells are activated and begin to replicate, some of their offspring become long-lived memory cells. Throughout the lifetime of an animal, these memory cells remember each specific pathogen encountered and can mount a strong response if the pathogen is detected again. This is "adaptive" because it occurs during the lifetime of an individual as an adaptation to infection with that pathogen and prepares the immune system for future challenges.

Immunological memory can be in the form of either passive short-term memory or active long-term memory.

Helper T cells T cell activation is tightly controlled and generally requires a very strong MHC/antigen activation signal, or additional activation signals provided by "helper" T cells. Antigen-presenting cells (APCs) present antigen on their Class II MHC molecules (MHC2). Which is then recognized by helper T cells.

T cells then release cytokines and other signals that stimulate the macrophages, killer T cells and B cells.

helper T cells proliferate when stimulated by b cells and macrophages The helpers then regulate and determine which immune responses the body makes to a particular pathogen. (maybe we should be calling them regulator T cells instead)

Foods Garlic Onion Ginger Cayenne/Capsicum Squash Citrus fruits Green Tea Mushrooms Cruciferous Vegetables Seasonal, local, organic fruits and vegetables For specific indications on food to support your immune system in an acute illness -consult with a holistic practitioner.

Immunodeficiencies The ability of the immune system to respond to pathogens is diminished in both the young and the elderly. Immune responses begin to decline at around 50 years of age. In western, post-industrial, capitalist countries, obesity, alcoholism and drug abuse (prescription and elicit) are common causes of poor immune function. Malnutrition is considered the most common cause of immunodeficiency in developing countries. Diets lacking sufficient protein are associated with impaired cell-mediated immunity, complement activity, phagocyte function, IgA antibody concentrations, and cytokine production. Additionally, the loss of the thymus at an early age through genetic mutation conditions or surgical removal results in severe immunodeficiency and a high susceptibility to infection.

Anti-inflammatory/Anti-microbial Diet -Eliminate sugar and refined carbohydrates -Identify and eliminate food sensitivities -Repair damages of chronic inflammation in your GI -Fix "Leaky Gut" -Ensure correct digestion of adequate proteins. -High magnesium and potassium foods -Cruciferous vegetables -Pineapple and papaya—proteolytic enzymes -Turmeric -potent anti-inflammatory. (bioavailable preparations) -Coconut:&nbsp;antimicrobial against viruses, fungi, bacteria -Garlic:&nbsp;antimicrobial against bacteria, fungi, parasites -Onion -Ginger -Seaweed (iodine) -Raw Apple Cider Vinegar -Cherries and cherry juice -if you have good digestion and don’t have high histamine, cultured foods &amp; raw dairy -warmed on low heat and with turmeric, black pepper, ginger.

Natural killer cells Natural killer cells, (NK cells), are part of the innate immune system. They do not directly attack invading microbes.

NK cells destroy host cells that have become compromised. This includes tumor cells or virus-infected cells.

Cells are recognized as compromised when one of the surface markers of the cell -called MHC I (major histocompatibility complex) is reduced. MHC I labels the cell as "self" and when it is reduced, the NK cells destroy them. Normal body cells are not recognized and attacked by NK cells because they express intact self MHC antigens. MHC antigens are recognized by killer cell immunoglobulin receptors which essentially put the brakes on NK cells.

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