April 29 is the International Day of Immunology. While it might not be as widely known, this day shines a light on a field that plays a crucial role in keeping us healthy. Immunology is the study of the immune system, the body’s defense against harmful pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
Have fun with immunology and download these activity sheets.
At the heart of the immune system are specialized immune cells that act as guardians of our health, our Immune Warriors. There are many different types and they are all very important.
Just to mention a few, B cells produce antibodies, proteins that bind to specific pathogens and mark them for destruction by other immune cells.
T cells help amplify the response and also identify and destroy cells that have been infected by viruses or have turned cancerous.
Macrophages, engulf and digest foreign particles and infected cells.
Dendritic cells capture and present antigens to other immune cells helping to initiate an immune response.
To truly appreciate the marvel of our immune system, it’s worth taking a closer look at these cells in action. Below are some videos that showcase immune cells under the microscope and illustrate how they move, interact, and eliminate threats.
