Can adaptive immune system work without innate immune system?

  • Thread starter Ahmed Abdullah
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In summary, the innate immune system can only recognize pathogen associated molecular patterns and is unable to discriminate between antigens of different individuals. However, in cases of tissue rejection and viral response, the adaptive immune system can still work independently, although not as effectively, without the help of the innate immune system. This is because the adaptive system relies on the maturation of CD4 lymphocytes, which are stimulated by phagocytes, and the recognition of MHC-II molecules by CD4 lymphocytes in cases of tissue rejection. Therefore, while the two systems are intertwined and dependent on each other, there are certain situations where the adaptive immune system can function without the innate immune system.
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Ahmed Abdullah
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Can adaptive immune system work without innate immune system, independently?

Innate immune system can only recognize pathogen associated molecular pattern, it doesn't have the capacity to discriminate antigens of different individual in the same species. But "tissue rejection" is a fact, so I suppose adaptive immune system can work (not necessary effectively) without any help from innate immune system- I am not sure, though.

Any input will be highly appreciated.
 
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Looks like a long essay question worth the debate. Both systems are so intertwined there is little capacity to separate either from the other. Usually with specified defects in the innate immunity, such as CD18 deficiency/neutropaenia/chronic granulomatous disease, the adaptive system fails miserably. But it's usually to those elements that need innate system for recognition, especially the Phagocytes. These also happen to "present" these antigens to develop the adaptive system.

Tissue rejection and viral response is a spin-off for adaptive system. Because every cell can display MHC-I associated antigens, the adaptive system (CD8 lymphocytes) work pretty well but still not without the maturation of CD4 lymphocytes where the stimulus is usually from the phagocytes (consider Tuberculosis immunity here). With tissue rejection, MHC-II molecules themselves may so different in the graft, they are recognized as different by CD-4 lymphocytes and that we do know, kicks off the adaptive system quickly.

So yes it can work, but only in limited specified situations like the one you already mentioned.
 

1. Can the adaptive immune system function without the innate immune system?

Yes, the adaptive immune system can still work without the innate immune system, but it may not be as effective. The innate immune system helps to quickly identify and respond to pathogens, which then triggers the adaptive immune system to produce specific antibodies.

2. What would happen if the innate immune system was not present?

Without the innate immune system, the body would have a longer response time to pathogens, making it more susceptible to infections. The adaptive immune system would still be able to fight off the infection, but it may take longer and be less efficient.

3. Are there any diseases or conditions that affect only the innate immune system?

Yes, there are some rare genetic disorders that specifically affect the innate immune system, such as chronic granulomatous disease and complement deficiencies. These disorders can lead to increased susceptibility to certain infections.

4. How do the innate and adaptive immune systems work together?

The innate and adaptive immune systems work together in a coordinated response to protect the body from pathogens. The innate immune system provides an initial, broad response to pathogens, while the adaptive immune system produces specific antibodies to target and eliminate the pathogen.

5. Can the innate immune system learn and adapt like the adaptive immune system?

No, the innate immune system does not have the ability to learn and adapt like the adaptive immune system. The adaptive immune system has specialized cells and processes that allow it to recognize and respond to specific pathogens, while the innate immune system has a more general response to a wide range of pathogens.

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