Immun im Cartoon, der Film (HD, dsai-Version)

The video explores the intricate and vital role of the human immune system, acting as a protective barrier against threats, even those that aren't always noticeable unless something goes wrong. The outermost defense, our skin, serves as a mechanical barrier that blocks pathogens. Various secretions such as sweat and oils keep it constantly protected, while UV rays help eliminate potential microbial threats.

Mucous membranes complement the skin as a second line of defense. These membranes trap foreign entities in sticky mucus, which are then expelled from the body through actions like coughing or sneezing. Additionally, secretions like saliva and tears contain lysozyme, an enzyme that breaks down viruses and bacteria. However, some pathogens can still bypass these defenses, leading to the activation of the body’s immune response.

Once pathogens penetrate the initial defenses and enter the body, the cellular barrier of the nonspecific immune response is prompted, involving immune cells like phagocytes. These cells attack foreign invaders, engulfing them and digesting them in a process known as phagocytosis. They also release cytokines to mobilize additional immune responses. Viruses, unlike bacteria, cannot reproduce independently and must hijack host cells with specific receptor keys, leading to their replication within.

The adaptive immune response takes over when the innate response is insufficient. It includes specialized cells like T and B lymphocytes. Upon recognition of an antigen, B lymphocytes produce antibodies that bind to antigens, preventing virus hijackings and neutralizing threats. The antibodies also facilitate the targeting of pathogens by other immune cells, such as T killer cells, which destroy compromised cells and disrupt the production of new viruses.