Molecules, Cells, and Tissue of the Immune Response

Abstract

The generation of an immune response of either the innate or acquired variety requires the interaction of specific molecules, cells and tissues. The present chapter provides an overview of these structures with brief descriptions enhanced by schematic representations, light and electron micrographs of those elements whose interactions yield a highly tailored immune response that is critical to survival of the species. Many of the molecules of immunity are described in subsequent chapters. Adhesion molecules that are important in bringing cells together in the generation of immune responses or of directing cellular traffic through vessels or interaction of cells with matrix are presented here.