Commentary - (2024) Volume 9, Issue 2
Received: 29-May-2024, Manuscript No. IPJCEP-24-20851; Editor assigned: 31-May-2024, Pre QC No. IPJCEP-24-20851 (PQ); Reviewed: 14-Jun-2024, QC No. IPJCEP-24-20851; Revised: 19-Jun-2024, Manuscript No. IPJCEP-24-20851 (R); Published: 26-Jun-2024, DOI: 10.36648/IPJCEP.9.2.19
The human immune system is a marvel of biological engineering, equipped to protect the body from a multitude of pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. Immune prevention refers to strategies and interventions designed to enhance or support the immune system’s natural defences to prevent infections and diseases. This comprehensive article explores the mechanisms of immune prevention, the role of vaccines, lifestyle factors, advancements in immunotherapy, and future directions in this critical field. The immune system is composed of two main branches: innate and adaptive immunity. This is the body’s first line of defence, providing immediate but non-specific protection. Components of innate immunity include physical barriers (like skin and mucous membranes), phagocytic cells (such as macrophages and neutrophils), natural killer cells, and various proteins (such as cytokines and complement proteins). This branch is more specialized and involves the activation of lymphocytes (B cells and T cells) that recognize specific antigens. Adaptive immunity is characterized by its ability to remember previous encounters with pathogens, providing long-lasting protection. B cells produce antibodies that bind to antigens, neutralizing pathogens or marking them for destruction. These cells come in different types, including helper T cells that assist other immune cells and cytotoxic T cells that destroy infected cells.
These signalling molecules mediate and regulate immunity, inflammation, and haematopoiesis. Cells that engulf and digest pathogens and debris. Vaccines are a cornerstone of immune prevention, working by stimulating the immune system to develop immunity to specific pathogens without causing the disease. They contain antigens derived from the pathogen, which can be inactivated, attenuated, or in the form of subunits or mRNA. Vaccines have had a profound impact on public health, leading to the eradication or significant reduction of diseases like smallpox, polio, measles, and hepatitis B. They not only protect vaccinated individuals but also contribute to herd immunity, reducing the spread of infectious diseases within communities. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports immune function. Key nutrients include. Found in citrus fruits, it enhances the production and function of white blood cells. Obtained from sunlight and certain foods, it modulates the immune response. Present in meat, shellfish, and legumes, zinc is crucial for the normal development and function of immune cells. Regular physical activity improves cardiovascular health, reduces inflammation, and enhances immune surveillance. Moderate exercise is beneficial, while excessive training without adequate recovery can impair immune function. Adequate sleep is essential for maintaining immune health.
Sleep deprivation can reduce the production of cytokines and antibodies, making the body more susceptible to infections. Chronic stress can suppress the immune response by increasing the production of cortisol, a hormone that inhibits inflammation. Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and yoga can help manage stress levels and support immune function. Monoclonal antibodies are lab-produced molecules that can mimic the immune system’s ability to fight off harmful pathogens. They are used in treating various diseases, including certain cancers, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases like COVID-19. Cancer immunotherapy, including checkpoint inhibitors and CAR T-cell therapy, leverages the immune system to target and destroy cancer cells. These therapies have revolutionized cancer treatment, offering new hope for patients with previously untreatable cancers.
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The author’s declared that they have no conflict of interest.
Citation: Compte M (2024) Immune Prevention: Harnessing the Body Defence Mechanisms. J Cancer Epidemiol Prev. 9:19.
Copyright: © 2024 Compte M. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.
