Passive immunity definitions
| Word backwards | evissap ytinummi |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Noun |
| Syllabic division | pas-sive im-mu-ni-ty |
| Plural | The plural form of passive immunity is passive immunities. |
| Total letters | 15 |
| Vogais (4) | a,i,e,u |
| Consonants (7) | p,s,v,m,n,t,y |
Passive immunity is a type of immunity that occurs when antibodies are transferred from one individual to another. This can happen naturally, such as when a mother passes antibodies to her baby through the placenta during pregnancy or through breast milk. It can also be artificially acquired through the administration of antibodies obtained from another individual or an animal.
The Role of Antibodies
Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system in response to the presence of foreign substances called antigens. These antibodies bind to specific antigens, marking them for destruction by other immune cells. In passive immunity, the recipient receives pre-formed antibodies, providing immediate protection against the targeted antigen.
Natural vs. Artificial Passive Immunity
Natural passive immunity is temporary and only lasts as long as the transferred antibodies remain in the body. In contrast, artificial passive immunity can be induced by administering antibodies from a different individual or animal. This form of immunity is used for immediate protection against specific pathogens or toxins.
Uses of Passive Immunity
Passive immunity is frequently used in the prevention and treatment of various diseases, including rabies, tetanus, and some viral infections. It is particularly beneficial in situations where immediate protection is needed, such as following exposure to a known pathogen.
Antibodies play a crucial role in passive immunity by providing immediate protection against specific antigens. Transfer of antibodies is the key mechanism in passive immunity, whether occurring naturally or artificially. Understanding the differences between natural and artificial passive immunity is essential in leveraging this type of protection effectively.
Passive immunity Examples
- A newborn baby receives passive immunity from its mother through breast milk.
- Intravenous immunoglobulin therapy is a form of passive immunity used to treat certain diseases.
- A person may acquire passive immunity to a specific virus by receiving pre-formed antibodies.
- Passive immunity can be temporary, lasting only a few weeks or months.
- Neutralizing antibodies from convalescent plasma provide passive immunity to patients with severe COVID-19.
- Passive immunity is often utilized in emergency situations to provide immediate protection against a particular pathogen.
- Some vaccines work by inducing passive immunity, where antibodies are directly administered.
- Passive immunity does not involve the recipient's immune system in producing antibodies.
- A person with a weakened immune system may benefit from passive immunity to prevent infections.
- Passive immunity can be artificially acquired through the injection of antibodies produced in another individual or animal.