Immunology is the branch of biomedical science that explores the body's immune system, which defends against infections and diseases. It examines how the immune system recognizes and responds to foreign substances, pathogens, and abnormal cells, while distinguishing them from healthy tissues.
Key areas include the roles of immune cells (like T cells, B cells, and macrophages), antibodies, and cytokines in immune responses. Immunology studies immunodeficiencies, autoimmune diseases (where the immune system attacks the body's own cells), allergies, and transplantation immunology.
Understanding immunology informs vaccine development, cancer immunotherapy, and treatments for infectious and autoimmune disorders, advancing both preventive and therapeutic medicine.
Tracks:
Innate and Adaptive Immunity
Immune Regulation and Tolerance
Infectious Diseases and Vaccines
Immunotherapy and Autoimmune Diseases