Cellular Abatacept Soluble fusion protein constituted by CTLA-4 that competitively blocks the costimulation of T cells through CD28.

Also: CTLA-4-Ig fusion protein · T cell costimulation modulator

Bacterial lipoteichoic acid Polymeric component of the cell wall of Gram-positive bacteria selectively recognized by the innate TLR2/TLR6 heterodimer.

Also: Cell wall teichoic acid · gram-positive TLR2 ligand

Human adalimumab Recombinant fully human monoclonal antibody that specifically blocks the interaction of TNF-alpha with surface receptors.

Also: Human anti-TNF antibody · anti-TNF-alpha Adalimumab

Apheresis of immune complexes Extracorporeal plasma purification treatment designed to eliminate pathological antibodies or circulating soluble complexes.

Also: Selective plasmapheresis · therapeutic plasma exchange of antibodies

Bruton's Agammaglobulinemia X-linked genetic defect in Bruton's tyrosine kinase that blocks complete B cell development.

Also: XLA · sex-linked agammaglobulinemia

Serum alpha-fetoprotein Protein of fetal origin overexpressed in hepatocarcinomas and germ cell tumors, very useful in oncological monitoring.

Also: AFP · fetal tumor marker

Cellular allograft Transplantation of cells or organs performed between two individuals of the same species that have different histocompatibility variants.

Also: Allogeneic transplant · homologous graft

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia due to warm antibodies Destruction of erythrocytes by IgG autoantibodies that react optimally at normal body temperature.

Also: AHAI by IgG · immune anemia due to warm autoantibodies

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia due to cold antibodies Hemolysis mediated by IgM antibodies that bind to the erythrocyte antigen, fixing serum proteins at low temperatures.

Also: Cold agglutinin disease · AHAI by IgM

T cell clonal anergy State of long-term functional inactivation that occurs when T cells recognize their ligand without a costimulatory signal.

Also: Cellular anergy · induced clonal inactivation

Waldeyer's pharyngeal lymphatic ring Circular collection of lymphoid tissue that surrounds the pharynx acting as a first line of defense against airborne pathogens.

Also: Waldeyer's Ring · pharyngeal lymphatic tonsils

Humanized monoclonal antibody Molecular construct in which only the hypervariable contact regions correspond to rodent sequences.

Also: Humanized antibody · human grafted CDR construct

Murine monoclonal antibody Immunoglobulin of entirely rodent origin with a short half-life in humans due to the induction of human antimurine immunoglobulins.

Also: Mouse monoclonal antibody · murine antibody

Chimeric monoclonal antibody Immunoglobulin composed of mouse variable regions linked to human constant regions to attenuate humoral rejection responses.

Also: Murine-human chimeric monoclonal antibody · chimeric antibody

Fully human monoclonal antibody Therapeutic recombinant protein obtained by cellular expression that completely lacks animal immunogenic determinants.

Also: Human monoclonal antibody · human molecular construct

Serum carcinoembryonic antigen Glycoprotein overexpressed in colon tumor epithelial cells used clinically to monitor neoplastic recurrence.

Also: CEA · carcinoembryonic tumor marker

Human leukocyte antigen Specific name of the major histocompatibility complex in our species, located on chromosome 6.

Also: HLA · major antigens from human transplant

AP-1 Heterodimeric transcription factor activated by MAP kinase cascades that promotes cell proliferation and differentiation.

Also: Activating protein 1 · AP-1 transcriptional factor

Rheumatoid arthritis of joint destruction Chronic autoimmune joint disease mediated by autoantibodies against rheumatoid factor and citrullinated proteins.

Also: autoimmune chronic erosive polyarthritis

Tissue autograft Autologous graft of own tissue that does not induce immune activation of rejection nor requires cell suppressive therapy.

Also: Autotransplant · autologous graft

Cytotoxic azathioprine Immunosuppressive purine analog that interferes with DNA synthesis in rapidly proliferating inflammatory cells.

Also: Imuran · antimetabolite-type immunosuppressant

BALT Organized lymphoid tissue located under the epithelium of the bronchial passages that mediates local respiratory immune responses.

Also: Lymphoid tissue associated with bronchi · bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue

Functional blood barrier Cortical anatomical structure that physically isolates developing thymocytes from macromolecules from the general circulation.

Also: Thymus-blood barrier · thymic protective barrier

Granulocytic basophil Circulating leukocyte that expresses the high affinity receptor for IgE and secretes chemical mediators participating in allergic processes.

Also: Basophilic · basophilic granulocytic cell

Bcl-6 Master transcription regulator that controls the cell fate and differentiation of follicular helper T cells.

Also: B cell lymphoma protein 6 · germinal center factor Bcl6

BCR B cell membrane receptor composed of an immunoglobulin linked to the Ig-alpha and Ig-beta signaling chains to recognize direct ligands.

Also: B cell receptor · B cell receptor

Beta-2 microglobulin Polypeptide component non-covalently associated with the alpha chain of all MHC class I molecules on the surface.

Also: B2M · MHC class I light chain

C3a Anaphyllotoxin released by the breakdown of serum protein C3 that induces mast cell degranulation and increases the permeability of blood vessels.

Also: Free fragment C3a · anaphyllotoxin C3a

C3b Larger fragment derived from the cleavage of C3 that covalently binds to pathogen membranes, facilitating phagocytosis and opsonization.

Also: C3b opsonization fragment · opsonin C3b

C3bBb Surface active enzyme generated in the alternative pathway that catalyzes the cleavage of more C3 molecules through an amplification loop.

Also: C3-alternative convertase · C3bBb complex

C4b2a Active enzymatic complex that hydrolyzes the C3 molecule to propagate the classic activation cascade of serum effector proteins.

Also: Classic C3-convertase · C4b2a complex

C5a Potent chemotactic agent and anaphyllotoxin that recruits neutrophils and induces the activation of endothelial cells and tissue mast cells.

Also: Free fragment C5a · chemotactic factor C5a

Invariant chain Protein that associates with MHC class II molecules in the reticulum, preventing the premature binding of endogenous peptides.

Also: CD74 · MHC-II protection protein

J Chain Acid glycoprotein essential for the polymerization and structural integrity of multimeric forms of immunoglobulins such as IgA and IgM.

Also: Union chain · J chain

Heavy chain isotype change Recombination of cellular DNA that changes the constant region of the heavy chain while preserving the specificity of the initial paratope.

Also: Antibody class change · recombination switch

Immune cathelicidin Antimicrobial protein released by neutrophils and epithelial cells that disorganizes the membranes of invading infectious agents.

Also: LL-37 Peptide · cathelicidin microbicide

CCL21 Chemokine expressed in endothelial cells of lymphatic vessels that guides the migration of dendritic and T cells to the lymph nodes.

Also: T cell zone chemokine · SLC

CCR7 Chemokine receptor expressed in naïve and mature dendritic T cells that facilitates their targeting to cortical ganglionic areas.

Also: CCL19 and CCL21 receiver · CD197

Soluble CD14 Soluble receptor that interacts with free lipopolysaccharides in plasma, facilitating its presentation to the TLR4 receptor on leukocytes.

Also: CD14 soluble marker · free LPS receiver

CD19 Coreceptor membrane glycoprotein that acts as a specific marker of the B lineage and actively participates in the amplification of intracellular signaling.

Also: Marker B CD19 · CD19 coreceptor

CD20 Transmembrane protein expressed in pre-B stages and mature B cells that regulates calcium flow and constitutes the therapeutic target of rituximab.

Also: Marker B CD20 · CD20 antigen

CD21 Membrane receptor that binds to the C3d opsonization fragment of serum proteins and the Epstein-Barr virus, acting as a coreceptor in B cells.

Also: Type 2 Complement Receiver · CR2

CD28 Crucial costimulatory molecule on the surface of T cells that interacts with B7 ligands on presenting cells to promote activation.

Also: CD28 costimulatory receptor · marker CD28

CD3 Signal transduction complex non-covalently associated with the T cell receptor on the surface of all mature T cell subtypes.

Also: CD3 Complex · marker T CD3

CD4 Monomeric coreceptor expressed on T helper cells that selectively binds to the constant regions of class II histocompatibility molecules.

Also: CD4 coreceptor · CD4 marker

CD40 Receptor of the tumor necrosis factor family expressed in presenting cells that regulates the maturation of B cells and macrophages.

Also: CD40 Receiver · marker CD40

CD40L Transmembrane ligand transiently expressed on activated T helper cells that interacts with CD40 to induce humoral isotype switching.

Also: CD154 · CD40 ligand

CD55 Membrane protein that accelerates the dissociation of C3 convertases and prevents the destructive lysis of the host's own cells.

Also: Deterioration accelerating factor · DAF

CD59 Membrane anchoring protein that prevents the polymerization of the serum component C9 in the terminal complex, blocking cell lysis.

Also: Protectin · inhibitor of reactive membrane lysis

CD8 Heterodimeric coreceptor expressed on cytotoxic T cells that specifically interacts with class I histocompatibility molecules during synapsis.

Also: CD8 coreceptor · marker CD8

CD80 Surface glycoprotein on presenting cells that acts as a costimulatory ligand for CD28 and an inhibitor for CTLA-4 on T cells.

Also: CD80 protein

CD86 Costimulatory membrane glycoprotein expressed on antigen-presenting cells that interacts with cellular receptors CD28 and CTLA-4.

Also: CD86 protein

CDR Short hypervariable segments within the variable domains of immunoglobulins and T receptors that make up the receptor paratope.

Also: Determining region of complementarity · hypervariable loop

Memory cell B Long-lived cell originated after follicular activation that generates a faster and more similar humoral response to a second exposure.

Also: Memory B lymphocyte · cellular humoral memory

Marginal B cell B cell subpopulation of the marginal zone of the spleen specialized in rapid T cell-independent responses against encapsulated bacteria.

Also: Cell B of the marginal zone · marginal splenic B lymphocyte

Epidermal Langerhans cell Immature dendritic cell resident in the epidermis that captures skin allergens and migrates to regional ganglia to present them.

Also: Dendritic cell of the epidermis · Langerhans histiocyte

Conventional dendritic cell Myeloid cell specialized in capturing, processing and presenting exogenous peptides to naïve T cells to initiate the adaptive response.

Also: Classical dendritic cell · cDC

Follicular dendritic cell Stromal cell of lymphoid follicles that retains intact immune complexes on its surface for the selection of mature B cells.

Also: FDC · follicular native antigen presenting cell

Plasmacytoid dendritic cell Cell lineage specialized in the massive production of type I interferons in response to the detection of viral nucleic acids.

Also: pDC · interferon-producing cell

Innate lymphocyte cell Family of innate immune effectors that lack specific antigen receptors but secrete patterns of cytokines homologous to T cells.

Also: ILC · innately lymphoid cell

Intestinal M cell Epithelial cell of Peyer's patches specialized in transporting antigens and bacteria to the adjacent lymphoid tissue.

Also: Microfold cell · intestinal antigen transporting cell

CD56bright NK cell Minor population of natural killer cells that predominates in lymph nodes and stands out for its abundant production of cytokines.

Also: Immunoregulatory NK cell · secreting NK subpopulation

CD56dim NK cell Major subpopulation of natural killer cells in peripheral blood characterized by a high direct cytotoxic capacity.

Also: Mature cytotoxic NK cell · effector NK subpopulation

Long-lived plasma cell Terminal effector cell that migrates to the bone marrow and secretes immunoglobulins continuously for years or decades.

Also: Bone marrow plasmacyte · persistent antibody-secreting cell

CAR T cell T lymphocyte transduced in vitro to express synthetic chimeric receptors directed against specific tumor surface markers.

Also: T cell with chimeric antigen receptor · CAR-T cells

Follicular helper T cell CD4+ subpopulation located in lymphoid follicles that promotes survival, selection and class change in B cells.

Also: Tfh · germinal center collaborator cell

Central memory T cell Long-lived lymphoid population that resides in secondary lymphoid organs and proliferates rapidly after re-exposure to its specific ligand.

Also: Lymphoid memory T cell · Tcm

Effector memory T cell Memory cell that actively patrols non-lymphoid peripheral tissues, displaying cytotoxic or immediate effector functions.

Also: Peripheral memory T cell · Tem

Gamma-delta T cell Minor cell lineage with unconventional T receptors that resides in epithelia and responds rapidly without restriction by classical MHC.

Also: Unconventional gamma-delta T cell · TCR1 T lymphocytes

Regulatory T cell CD4+ FoxP3+ cell responsible for inhibiting the activation of autoreactive immune cells and maintaining systemic homeostasis.

Also: Treg · suppressor T cell

Th1 T cell CD4+ cell subpopulation that mainly produces interferon-gamma to activate macrophages and eradicate intracellular pathogens.

Also: Type 1 cooperating T cell · T helper lymphocyte 1

Th17 T cell CD4+ cell sublineage characterized by the synthesis of IL-17 involved in the defense of epithelial barriers against fungi and bacteria.

Also: IL-17-producing helper T cell · Th17 lymphocyte

Th2 T cell CD4+ cell subpopulation that secretes interleukins 4, 5 and 13 to promote the protective response against intestinal helminths.

Also: Type 2 cooperator T cell · T helper 2 lymphocyte

Active follicular germinal center Transitory region within secondary lymphoid follicles where activated B cells proliferate and mature.

Also: Secondary germinal center · follicular B cell proliferation focus

Immunosuppressive cyclosporine A Calcineurin inhibitor that prevents the translocation of NFAT by selectively blocking the cellular expression of IL-2.

Also: Cyclosporine · calcineurinic T cell inhibitor

Analytical flow cytometry Biophysical method that uses lasers to count, classify and characterize individual cells labeled with specific membrane fluorophores.

Also: Analysis by flow cytometry · characterization by cell cytometry

Cellular cytotoxicity due to ADCC Effector mechanism where effectors that express CD16 destroy target cells previously coated with IgG immunoglobulins.

Also: Antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity · IgG-directed target killing

Mandatory costimulation Second molecular signal necessary for the activation of mature T cells, typically the interaction of CD28 with CD80/CD86.

Also: T cell costimulation · costimulatory signal 2

Membrane attack complex Cylindrical multimeric structure constituted by the terminal serum proteins C5b to C9 that perforates the lipid bilayers of pathogens.

Also: MAC · lytic membrane complex

Major histocompatibility complex Group of polymorphic genes grouped in a genomic region that encode key glycoproteins for the presentation of immune peptides.

Also: MHC · genomic histocompatibility system

Secretory component Fragment of the polymeric immunoglobulin receptor that remains bound to IgA, protecting it from enzymatic degradation in mucosa.

Also: Secretory piece · protective component of IgA

Thymic Hassall corpuscle Concentric structure of epithelial cells in the thymic medulla involved in the differentiation of regulatory T cells.

Also: Hassall Corpuscle · medullary thymic bodies

CTLA-4 Coinhibition receptor expressed on activated T cells that competes with CD28 for binding to CD80/CD86, stopping lymphoid proliferation.

Also: CD152 · cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4

CVID Disorder characterized by severe hypogammaglobulinemia, dysfunction in B cell differentiation, and susceptibility to synovial and respiratory infections.

Also: Common variable immunodeficiency · acquired common variable hypogammaglobulinemia

CXCL12 Chemokine involved in cell recruitment, hematopoietic development and active retention of progenitor cells in the bone marrow.

Also: Stromal cell derived factor 1 · SDF-1

CXCR4 Seven-transmembrane domain chemokine receptor that regulates cellular chemotaxis toward CXCL12 and acts as a coreceptor for HIV strains.

Also: SDF-1 receiver · CD184

DAMP Endogenous molecules released by damaged, necrotic or cells under cellular stress that activate the local inflammatory response.

Also: Molecular pattern associated with damage · cell alarm

Mucosal defensin Cationic antimicrobial peptide involved in the permeabilization and lysis of pathogen membranes in body epithelia.

Also: Defensin antimicrobial peptide · mucosal beta-defensin

C1q deficiency Defect in the classic component of serum complement strongly associated with the appearance of autoimmune lupus glomerulonephritis.

Also: Hereditary C1q defect · depletion of classic serum proteins

C2 deficiency Hereditary absence of the second component of the classical pathway, which associates frequent bacterial infections and autoimmune syndromes.

Also: C2 genetic defect · absence of serum C2 component

C3 deficiency Severe defect that compromises pathogen opsonization and serum activation, determining extreme susceptibility to pyogenic bacteria.

Also: C3 congenital defect · absence of the central component C3

C1 inhibitor deficiency Genetic disorder that causes uncontrolled activation of bradykinins, causing recurrent episodes of angioedema.

Also: C1-INH defect · hereditary angioedema type I and II

Selective IgA deficiency Immune defect characterized by undetectable serum concentrations of IgA with other classes of immunoglobulins within normal ranges.

Also: Selective IgA defect · isolated IgA deficiency

Clonal deletion due to apoptosis Elimination of self-reactive immune cell clones through cell death mechanisms actively induced by self-antigens.

Also: Apoptotic clonal elimination · clonal apoptosis of autoreactive cells

Poison ivy dermatitis Type IV skin reaction mediated by the activation of T cells against lipophilic haptens that contact the skin.

Also: Contact dermatitis due to urushiol · cellular contact eczema due to plants

Protective immune deviation Change in the T cell response profile from an inflammatory phenotype to one that is tolerogenic or less damaging to tissues.

Also: Immunological deviation · Th1/Th2/Treg profile change

ELISA Sandwich Assay that quantifies an antigen using a plate capture antibody and another detection antibody coupled to a marker enzyme.

Also: ELISA Sandwich · antibody sandwich immunoassay

Direct ELISA Enzymatic immunoassay where an antigen immobilized on a plate is directly detected by a specific antibody conjugated with an enzyme.

Also: Direct ELISA · direct immunoenzymatic assay

Indirect ELISA Technique that uses a labeled secondary antibody to detect the previous binding of an unlabeled primary antibody to a given antigen.

Also: Indirect ELISA · indirect immunoenzymatic assay

ELISPOT Highly sensitive assay that detects the frequency of individual cells secreting cytokines or specific antibodies in vitro.

Also: Enzyme-linked immunospot assay · immunoenzymatic stain assay

Graves-Basedow thyroid disease Disease characterized by stimulatory autoantibodies that continuously activate the TSH receptor, inducing autonomous hyperthyroidism.

Also: Autoimmune toxic diffuse goiter · autoimmune hyperthyroidism due to stimulating antibodies

Active graft-versus-host disease Serious pathology triggered when immunocompetent T cells present in the donor graft attack the recipient's tissues.

Also: GVHD · graft-versus-host disease

Acute serum sickness Systemic reaction due to deposition of immune complexes formed after the administration of foreign proteins or heterologous sera.

Also: Serum reaction · vasculitis due to circulating soluble immune complexes

X-linked chronic granulomatous disease Genetic defect in phagocytic NADPH oxidase that alters the synthesis of free radicals and prevents the destruction of catalase-positive bacteria.

Also: X-linked CGD · phagocytic oxidative burst deficiency

Active agglutination test Test that evaluates the presence of immune complexes or antigens through the visible formation of clumps of specific biological particles.

Also: Direct agglutination reaction · immunological agglutination test

Complement fixation assay Serological test that determines specific antibodies by evaluating whether they prevent serum-mediated lysis of indicator erythrocytes.

Also: serum effector protein binding test

Tissue eosinophil Granulocytic cell specialized in the destruction of helminths by releasing toxic basic proteins from their granules.

Also: Eosinophil · eosinophilic polymorphonuclear cell

Neuroinflammatory multiple sclerosis Demyelinating disease of the central nervous system mediated by autoreactive T cells directed against myelin components.

Also: EM · autoimmune demyelinating disease of the central nervous system

Oxidative burst Rapid increase in cellular oxygen consumption aimed at generating reactive species to destroy actively phagocytosed pathogens.

Also: Respiratory burst · microbicidal oxidative explosion

Respiratory burst of phagocytes Massive generation of highly reactive oxygen intermediates inside the phagolysosomes of neutrophils or macrophages.

Also: destructive oxidative burst

Recombinant etanercept Soluble fusion protein that combines the TNF receptor with the Fc portion of IgG1, neutralizing the tissue cytotoxic activity of TNF.

Also: Soluble anti-TNF fusion protein · soluble TNF-alpha receptor

Immunosuppressive Everolimus Synthetic derivative of rapamycin that blocks the cellular cell cycle by inhibiting the mTOR protein complex.

Also: mTOR inhibitor Everolimus · T cell proliferation immunosuppressant

Allelic exclusion of immunoglobulins Expression of a single heavy and light chain allele in a B cell to guarantee the specificity of its receptor.

Also: Exclusion of immunoglobulin alleles · monospecificity of the BCR

Plasma H factor Soluble serum glycoprotein that acts as a negative regulator of the alternative pathway, accelerating the dissociation of the C3 convertase.

Also: H Factor · alternative pathway regulator

Plasma factor I Serine protease that selectively inactivates the opsonizing effector fragments C3b and C4b in the presence of specific cofactors.

Also: C3b/C4b inactivator · Factor I

Active phagolysosome Intracellular vacuole formed by the fusion of a phagosome with a lysosome, where phagocytosed microorganisms are actively degraded.

Also: Cellular lytic vacuole · mature phagolysosome

Cellular active phagolysosome Intracellular digestion organelle with acidic pH where lytic enzymes and reactive species destined for microbial clearance coincide.

Also: Pathogen degradation vacuole · phagocytic digestion organelle

Immunomodulatory drug Pharmacological substance used to stimulate, inhibit or precisely regulate the intensity of cellular immune responses.

Also: Therapeutic immunomodulator · biological response modifying agent

Fas Cell surface death receptor that triggers the extrinsic pathway of cellular apoptosis after interacting with its specific ligand.

Also: CD95 · Fas receiver

Tumor elimination phase Stage of immunoediting where natural killer cells and T cells successfully recognize and destroy nascent neoplastic foci.

Also: Initial neoplastic destruction · immune tumor clearance

Tumor equilibrium phase Tumor latency period where surviving tumor clones remain silent under chronic cellular immune control.

Also: Immune neoplastic latency · chronic cellular tumor control

Tumor escape phase Final phase of immunoediting where tumor cells lose immunogenicity or induce local immunosuppression, progressing clinically.

Also: Immune evasion of tumors · refractory neoplastic progression

FasL Transmembrane protein expressed by cytotoxic T and NK cells that binds to the Fas receptor to induce apoptosis of target cells.

Also: CD178 · Fas ligand

Fc-epsilon-RI Very high affinity receptor for IgE abundantly expressed on the membrane of mast cells and basophils that triggers allergic responses.

Also: High affinity IgE receptor · local anaphylaxis receptor

Fc-gamma-RI High affinity receptor for IgG expressed in phagocytes that triggers the active internalization of pathogens opsonized by antibodies.

Also: CD64 · high affinity IgG receptor

Fc-gamma-RII Intermediate affinity receptor that negatively modulates the activation of B cells or stimulates phagocytosis in granulocytes.

Also: CD32 · intermediate affinity IgG receptor

Fc-gamma-RIII Membrane glycoprotein directly involved in the cellular cytotoxicity mechanism mediated by natural killer cells.

Also: CD16 · low affinity IgG receptor

FcRn Receptor that selectively transports IgG across the placenta and protects these molecules from cellular lysosomal degradation.

Also: Neonatal Fc receptor · IgG transporter

Bacteria flagellin Soluble structural protein constituent of bacterial flagella involved in the stimulation of the innate transmembrane receptor TLR5.

Also: Bacterial flagellar protein · TLR5 ligand

FOXP3 Master transcription factor essential for the differentiation and maintenance of suppressive functions of regulatory T cells.

Also: Escurfin · Treg cell regulatory factor FOXP3

Fab Fragment Monovalent region of an immunoglobulin obtained by enzymatic cleavage with papain that preserves the epitope binding capacity intact.

Also: Fab fragment · antigenic junction fragment

Fc Fragment Crystallizable region of immunoglobulins that interacts with cell membrane receptors and initiates cell or serum activation.

Also: Fc fragment · effector portion of the antibody

Fyn Src family tyrosine kinase that participates redundantly with Lck in the early phases of T receptor transduction.

Also: P59fyn protein kinase · Fyn kinase

GALT Component of the mucosal immune system of the gastrointestinal tract that coordinates the induction of digestive tolerance responses.

Also: Lymphoid tissue associated with digestive mucosa · gut-associated lymphoid tissue

GATA-3 Nuclear transcription factor necessary for cell differentiation towards the protective Th2 effector line against helminths.

Also: Master factor Th2 · GATA binding protein 3

Antimicrobial granulysin Protein that induces the permeabilization and death of mycobacteria and intracellular pathogens contained in killer cell granules.

Also: Cytolytic peptide granulysin · destroyer of intracellular pathogens

Proteolytic Granzyme B Apoptosis-inducing granular enzyme that directly activates caspase-3 and initiates the fragmentation of target cellular DNA.

Also: Apoptotic Granzyme B · cell granule fragmentation machine

Directed somatic hypermutation Accelerated mutation process in variable immunoglobulin genes that occurs during cell proliferation in lymphoid follicles.

Also: Somatic mutation of antibodies · SHM cell

HLA-A Genetic locus and glycoprotein corresponding to the classic class I of the highly polymorphic human major histocompatibility complex.

Also: HLA class I locus A · transplant antigen class I A

HLA-B Classic class I locus of the human histocompatibility system that plays a central role in the response of CD8+ cells.

Also: HLA class I locus B · class I B transplant antigen

HLA-B27 Specific class I allele of the human leukocyte antigen strongly associated with ankylosing spondylitis and other clinically seronegative spondyloarthropathies.

Also: Human leukocyte antigen B27 · HLA-B27 gene

HLA-C Classical class I gene of the human histocompatibility system involved in antigen presentation and regulation of killer cells.

Also: HLA class I locus C · class I C transplant antigen

HLA-DP Classical class II molecule of the human histocompatibility complex that presents exogenous peptides to CD4+ helper cells.

Also: HLA class II DP locus · DP presentation antigen

HLA-DQ Classic class II heterodimeric glycoprotein involved in immune modulation and closely linked to autoimmune predisposition.

Also: HLA class II locus DQ · DQ presentation antigen

HLA-DQ8 Class II histocompatibility molecule closely linked to genetic susceptibility to celiac disease and type 1 diabetes.

Also: Human leukocyte antigen DQ8 · HLA-DQB1*0302

HLA-DR Classic human histocompatibility class II heterodimeric protein abundantly expressed in the membrane of presenting cells.

Also: HLA class II DR locus · DR presentation antigen

HLA-DR4 Class II allele of the human histocompatibility complex associated with a significant increase in the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.

Also: Human leukocyte antigen DR4 · HLA-DRB1*04

HLA-E Non-classical class I protein that presents peptides derived from sequences of other HLA class I molecules to inhibitory NK receptors.

Also: HLA-E non-classical histocompatibility molecule · NK cell inhibitory ligand

HLA-G Non-classical class I molecule that exerts an immunosuppressive role in the decidua, protecting the fetus from the mother's immune system.

Also: Non-classical histocompatibility antigen HLA-G · gestational tolerance molecule

ICAM-1 Intercellular adhesion molecule expressed in endothelial cells that binds to LFA-1 in leukocytes, facilitating its passage to tissues.

Also: CD54 · intercellular adhesion molecule 1

Immunological clonal ignorance Situation where autoreactive cells survive in the periphery but are not activated due to the low level or inaccessibility of the antigen.

Also: Clonal ignorance · clonal immunological passivity

Recurrent Neisseria infections Clinical condition highly correlated with deficiencies of serum terminal components C5 to C9 necessary for the lytic pore.

Also: Susceptibility to Neisseria due to defect of terminal proteins · recurrent meningococcal infections due to MAC deficiency

NLRP3 inflammasome Cytosolic multiprotein complex that processes and activates the pro-cytokines IL-1 beta and IL-18 after detecting danger or damage signals.

Also: NLRP3 inflammasome complex · intracellular danger sensor

Neutralizing infliximab Chimeric monoclonal antibody that selectively binds and neutralizes the biological activity of inflammatory TNF-alpha.

Also: Chimeric anti-TNF antibody · anti-TNF-alpha Infliximab

Cellular adaptive immunity Specialized immune response mediated by activated T cells that specifically combats intracellular growth pathogens.

Also: T cell-mediated immunity · cellular adaptive defense

Humoral adaptive immunity Highly specific defense mediated by soluble antibodies secreted by plasma cells originating from activated B cells.

Also: Immunity mediated by specific antibodies · adaptive humoral defense

Innate cellular immunity Defense mediated by phagocytic and natural killer cells that respond quickly to biological aggressions without specific memory.

Also: Non-specific cellular responses · innate cellular effectors

Community herd immunity Indirect protection achieved when a high percentage of the population is immune, significantly limiting infectious spread.

Also: Herd immunity · herd immunity

Innate humoral immunity Soluble component of the innate immune defense consisting of plasma proteins and fluid-soluble antimicrobial peptides.

Also: Innate humoral defenses · non-specific humoral immunity

Artificial active immunization Induction of adaptive responses and protective memory through the controlled administration of vaccines or bacterial toxoids.

Also: Active vaccination · vaccine-induced immunity

Artificial passive immunization Transfer of temporary immunological protection through the administration of hyperimmune sera or concentrated immunoglobulin preparations.

Also: Protective serotherapy · transfer of exogenous antibodies

Immunoadjuvant for vaccines Substance that is added to vaccine formulations to enhance the intensity and duration of the specific adaptive response.

Also: Vaccine adjuvant · non-specific immune enhancer

Diagnostic immunocytochemistry Localization of antigenic determinants in preparations of isolated cells or cell smears using enzyme-labeled antibodies.

Also: ICQ · diagnostic immunocellular staining

Circulating immune complex Soluble macromolecular structure formed by the binding of specific antibodies to antigens that patrol the bloodstream.

Also: Circulating immune complex · serum antigen-antibody aggregate

Quantitative radial immunodiffusion Agarose gel precipitation assay that allows quantification of proteins by measuring the diameter of the immune precipitate ring.

Also: Mancini method · simple radial immunodiffusion

Immunoediting of tumors Dynamic interaction between the immune system and tumor cells that shapes tumor antigenicity and progression.

Also: Tumor immune editing · immune selection of tumors

Serum immunoelectrophoresis Combined technique of electrophoretic separation of plasma proteins and subsequent immunodiffusion with specific antibodies to detect clinical abnormalities.

Also: Immunological electrophoresis · qualitative analysis of serum proteins

Analytical direct immunofluorescence Staining technique that uses a specific antibody directly conjugated to a fluorochrome to visualize targets in tissue sections.

Also: Direct IF · direct fluorescent labeling

Analytical indirect immunofluorescence Method that uses a secondary antibody labeled with fluorescein to amplify the signal of a primary antibody bound to its target.

Also: Indirect IF · indirect fluorescent detection

Molecular immunogenetics Discipline that analyzes the variations in the genome that determine the diversity of specific receptors and biological susceptibilities.

Also: Genetics of the immune system · immune genomic diversity

Protective immunogenicity Ability of a substance to trigger a specific and protective humoral or cellular immune response in a given host.

Also: Immunogenicity · immunogenicity of antigens

Low tumor immunogenicity Attribute of neoplastic cells that express a low number of MHC or costimulatory molecules, making their recognition by T cells difficult.

Also: Low tumor antigenicity · evasion due to immunogenic silence

Specific hyperimmune immunoglobulin Human polyclonal preparation with high titers of antibodies against specific toxins or infectious agents.

Also: Hyperimmune serum · high protective gamma globulin

Therapeutic intravenous immunoglobulin Purified polyclonal IgG concentrate used for replacement therapy or cellular immunomodulation in autoimmune disease.

Also: IVIG · human intravenous gamma globulin

Diagnostic immunohistochemistry Use of enzymatically labeled antibodies in histological sections to identify the expression and tissue localization of specific proteins.

Also: IHQ · diagnostic immunohistological staining

Systemic immunoma Complete map of genetic and molecular interactions that determine cellular and effector activity of individual immunity.

Also: Global immune profile · molecular map of the immune system

Cellular immunometabolism Study of the reprogramming of cellular energy pathways in leukocytes that governs their activation states.

Also: Metabolism of the immune system · immune energy profiles

Clinical immunonephelometry Analytical technique that quantifies plasma proteins by measuring the intensity of light scattered by complexes formed in suspension.

Also: Immune nephelometry · nephelometric protein quantification

Directed immunoprecipitation Technique to isolate a protein from a complex mixture through its selective precipitation using a high binding affinity antibody.

Also: IP · immunochemical protein isolation

Developmental immunosenescence Regressive physiological remodeling of adaptive immunity that limits vaccine efficacy in elderly patients.

Also: Immune aging · cellular immune senescence

Active adoptive immunotherapy Selective transfer to the patient of immune system cells previously activated or genetically manipulated in vitro.

Also: Adoptive cell transfer · immune cell therapy

Peripheral immunotolerance Mechanism that inactivates or eliminates autoreactive cells outside the primary lymphoid organs, preventing destructive autoimmune pathologies.

Also: Peripheral tolerance · peripheral immune control

Clinical immunotoxicology Science that evaluates the functional alterations of the immune response caused by chemical contaminants or drugs.

Also: Immune toxicity · immunotoxic adverse effects

Clinical immunoturbidimetry Optical method that measures the decrease in light transmitted through a suspension due to the formation of insoluble complexes.

Also: Turbidimetric measurement of immune complexes · immune turbidimetry

Tumor immunosurveillance Constant recognition and elimination of nascent neoplastic cells actively carried out by NK and T cells.

Also: Immune surveillance of tumors · immune tumor monitoring

iNOS Enzyme inducible by inflammatory stimuli that synthesizes nitric oxide, a key cytotoxic agent for the intracellular control of pathogens.

Also: Inducible nitric oxide synthase · NOS type 2

Interferon-alpha Family of proteins produced by leukocytes and plasmacytoid dendritic cells with potent antiviral and direct antiproliferative activity.

Also: IFN-alpha · leukocyte interferon

Interferon-beta Antiviral glycoprotein produced by fibroblasts and viral infections that induces resistance to infection in neighboring uninfected cells.

Also: IFN-beta · fibroblastic interferon

Interferon-gamma Macrophage-activating cytokine and potent inducer of cellular expression of MHC class II, produced by Th1 and NK cells.

Also: IFN-gamma · type II interferon

Interleukin-1 Polyvalent proinflammatory polypeptide produced mainly by macrophages that acts as an endogenous pyrogen and inducer of the acute hepatic phase.

Also: IL-1 · pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1

Interleukin-10 Inhibitory factor of the synthesis of proinflammatory mediators, produced by regulatory T cells to limit tissue damage from inflammation.

Also: IL-10 · anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10

Interleukin-12 Heterodimer produced by antigen-presenting cells that induces the differentiation of Th1 cells and stimulates the cellular production of interferon-gamma.

Also: IL-12 · natural killer cell stimulation factor

Interleukin-17 Proinflammatory cytokine produced by Th17 cells that massively recruits neutrophils to tissue infection foci and mucosal surfaces.

Also: IL-17 · IL-17A

Interleukin-2 T cell growth and differentiation factor produced mainly by CD4+ T helper cells after stimulation with immunogens.

Also: IL-2 · T lymphocyte growth factor

Interleukin-23 Crucial regulator of the stabilization and survival of Th17 cells involved in the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory diseases.

Also: IL-23 · Th17 cell maintenance factor

Interleukin-3 Multipoietic colony stimulating factor that promotes the development and proliferation of progenitor cells of multiple immune lineages.

Also: IL-3 · pluripotent stimulation factor

Interleukin-4 Glycoprotein produced by Th2 cells that promotes class change towards IgE and alternative polarization towards M2 phenotype macrophages.

Also: IL-4 · B cell growth factor-1

Interleukin-5 Cytocin produced by Th2 cells and mast cells that specifically stimulates the development, maturation, chemotaxis and survival of eosinophils.

Also: IL-5 · eosinophil differentiation factor

Interleukin-6 Polypeptide with pleiotropic effects that induces the synthesis of acute phase proteins in the liver and stimulates the differentiation of plasma cells.

Also: IL-6 · plasmocyte differentiation factor

Immuno-oncological Ipilimumab Human antibody that blocks CTLA-4 in activated T cells, enhancing the innate antitumor immune response.

Also: Anti-CTLA-4 antibody · CTLA-4 immune checkpoint modulator

Tissue isograft Tissue transplant performed between identical twins who share identical genetic alleles of the histocompatibility complex.

Also: Isotransplantation · isogenic graft

ITAM Activation motif located in the cytoplasmic tails of immune receptors that initiates active cellular phosphorylation cascades.

Also: Immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motif · immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motif

ITIM Motif of cellular inhibition located in immune receptors that recruits phosphatases responsible for attenuating cellular activation signals.

Also: Motif of inhibition based on immunoreceptor tyrosines · immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibition motif

Lactoferrin granules Glycoprotein that sequesters free iron, potently inhibiting the proliferation of bacteria encapsulated in inflammatory foci.

Also: Leukocyte iron chelator · immune lactoferrin

LAD-1 Recessive genetic disorder caused by mutations in CD18 that prevent the expression of beta-2 integrins, blocking the passage of leukocytes.

Also: Leukocyte adhesion deficiency type 1 · integrin beta-2 defect

LAD-2 Syndrome characterized by recurrent infections without pus due to a primary defect in leukocyte rolling secondary to abnormalities in selectins.

Also: Leukocyte adhesion deficiency type 2 · selectin ligand defect

Lck Src family tyrosine kinase associated with CD4 and CD8 essential for T cell receptor signal transduction.

Also: P56lck protein kinase · T cell tyrosine kinase Lck

LFA-1 Integrin beta-2 involved in the adhesion and migration of white blood cells that selectively interacts with the endothelial molecule ICAM-1.

Also: Antigen associated with leukocyte function 1 · CD11a/CD18

Lysozyme of secretions Enzyme present in tears that cleaves glycosidic bonds of bacterial murein, destroying gram-positive bacteria.

Also: Muramidasa · lytic enzyme of secretions

Bacterial LPS Glycolipid constituent of the wall of gram-negative bacteria that acts as a powerful molecular pattern that induces endothelial inflammation.

Also: Gram-negative endotoxin · lipopolysaccharide

Autoimmune systemic lupus erythematosus Generalized chronic inflammatory disease characterized by nuclear autoantibodies and systemic deposition of immune complexes.

Also: systemic lupus disease

Macrophage M1 Phagocytic cell activated by the classical pathway that secretes proinflammatory mediators, destroys pathogens and promotes Th1 type responses.

Also: Macrophage activated by classical route · pro-inflammatory macrophage

Macrophage M2 Phagocytic cell activated by the alternative pathway that promotes the resolution of inflammation, tissue repair and local angiogenesis.

Also: Alternative activation macrophage · repair macrophage

Affinity maturation in germinal centers Process by which the average affinity of antibodies for the antigen progressively increases through point mutations.

Also: High affinity selection · antibody maturation

MALT Non-encapsulated lymphoid tissue associated with mucous membranes responsible for coordinating localized immune defenses.

Also: Lymphoid tissue associated with mucosa · mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue

MAMP Molecular structures conserved in commensal microorganisms recognized in the same way as pathogens by innate recognition receptors.

Also: Molecular pattern associated with microbes · microbe-associated molecular pattern

Splenic follicular mantle Corona of resting naïve B cells surrounding the active germinal centers in the splenic lymphoid follicles.

Also: Mantle area · follicular crown

Connective mast cell Tissue cell rich in histamine and heparin granules that resides near blood vessels and participates in immediate inflammatory responses.

Also: Tissue mast cell · connective tissue type mast cell

Mucous mast cell Subpopulation of mast cells that is abundant in the respiratory and intestinal mucosa, active against parasitic infestations by helminths.

Also: Mucous mast cell · T cell-dependent mast cell

MBL Circulating acute phase soluble lectin that recognizes terminal mannose residues on microbial surfaces, initiating the serum cascade.

Also: Mannose-binding lectin · mannan-binding protein

MDA5 Intracellular sensor that detects long double-stranded RNA molecules in the cytoplasm of the active cell, activating cellular defense responses.

Also: Melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5 · IFIH1

MHC class I Surface protein complex present in all nucleated cells of the body that presents endogenous peptides to CD8+ T cells for monitoring.

Also: Major histocompatibility complex class I · MHC-I

MHC class II Protein complex expressed mainly by professional presenting cells that displays peptides of exogenous origin to CD4+ T helper cells.

Also: Major histocompatibility complex class II · MHC-II

MHC class III Gene region of the major histocompatibility complex that encodes circulating soluble proteins, including factors of the serum protein system and cytotoxins.

Also: Major histocompatibility complex class III · MHC-III

Myasthenia gravis of synaptic involvement Autoimmune disorder in which autoantibodies block and degrade nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at neuromuscular junctions.

Also: Myasthenia gravis · autoimmune postsynaptic muscle weakness

Cellular mycophenolate mofetil Drug that reversibly blocks inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase, preventing the synthesis of purines in T and B lymphocytes.

Also: Mycophenolate · inhibitor of de novo purine synthesis

Myeloperoxidase granules Enzyme of neutrophils that catalyzes the conversion of hydrogen peroxide and chloride ions into bactericidal hypochlorous acid.

Also: MPO · intracellular disinfectant enzyme

Leukocyte myeloperoxidase Enzyme abundant in azurophilic granules that catalyzes the synthesis of hypochlorous acid during active phagocytic activity.

Also: MPO cell · granulocyte peroxidase

Molecular mimicry Structural similarity between pathogen determinants and own tissues that can induce the activation of silent autoreactive clones.

Also: Pathogen-host cross-reactivity · antigenic similarity

Classic monocyte Circulating leukocyte with a proinflammatory phenotype that rapidly migrates to injured tissues to differentiate into tissue macrophages.

Also: Inflammatory monocyte · monocyte CD14++ CD16-

Non-classical monocyte Monocyte cell that patrols the vascular endothelium and participates in the maintenance of endothelial tissue integrity.

Also: Patrol monocyte · monocyte CD14+ CD16++

NADPH oxidase active Membrane enzyme complex that catalyzes the reduction of oxygen to superoxide, initiating the oxidative burst in active phagocytes.

Also: NOX Complex · phagocytic oxidase

Lytic NETosis Active cell death process in neutrophils that results in the release of chromatin networks decorated with insoluble antimicrobial peptides.

Also: Neutrophil extracellular traps · cell lysis of neutrophils by networks

NF-kappaB Pleiotropic transcription protein complex central to the induction of inflammatory mediators and regulators of leukocyte survival.

Also: Nuclear factor that enhances kappa light chains of activated B cells · inflammatory transcription factor NF-kB

NFAT Transcription factor activated by calcineurin-mediated dephosphorylation that regulates the expression of lymphoid activation genes.

Also: Nuclear factor of activated T cells · calcium-dependent transcriptional factor

Immuno-oncological nivolumab Monoclonal antibody that selectively blocks PD-1, restoring the cytotoxic function of T cells against tumors.

Also: Anti-PD-1 antibody Nivolumab · PD-1 checkpoint inhibitor

NOD1 Cytosolic pattern recognition receptor that detects peptidoglycan subunits containing dipalmitoyl-diaminopimelic acid in gram-negative bacteria.

Also: NOD1 intracellular receptor · CARD4

NOD2 Cytoplasmic sensor that recognizes the muramyl dipeptide of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, associated with predisposition to Crohn's disease.

Also: NOD2 intracellular receptor · CARD15

Cytotoxic nitric oxide Cytotoxic gaseous mediator synthesized by activated macrophages with deleterious activity against bacteria and tumor cells.

Also: NO molecular · immune cytotoxic gas

PAMP Highly conserved molecular structures shared by pathogenic microorganisms specifically recognized by receptors of the innate system.

Also: Molecular pattern associated with pathogens · pathogen-associated molecular pattern

Paratope Specific site of the antibody located in the variable domains that physically and chemically binds to the corresponding epitope.

Also: Place of binding to the antigen · antigen-binding site

PD-1 Programmed death type 1 receptor in T cells that, by binding to its ligands, suppresses cell activation cascades, preventing autoimmune processes.

Also: CD279 · programmed death receiver 1

PD-L1 Programmed death ligand expressed on tumor and presenting cells that promotes the evasion of cellular cytotoxic responses by binding to PD-1.

Also: CD274 · programmed death ligand 1

Immuno-oncological pembrolizumab Humanized antibody that blocks the interaction of PD-1 with its ligands, preventing antitumor lymphoid cell exhaustion.

Also: Anti-PD-1 antibody Pembrolizumab · tumor T cell reactivator

Wall peptidoglycan Complex polymer that constitutes the bacterial envelope detected intracellularly by host cytosolic receptors.

Also: Bacterial murein · NOD receptor ligand

Perforin granules Protein released by cytotoxic T lymphocytes that forms pores in the target cell membrane, facilitating the penetration of proteases.

Also: Cellular pore-forming protein · cytotoxic perforin

Induced pyroptosis Highly pro-inflammatory form of programmed cell death triggered by the activation of inflammatory caspases and formation of cellular pores.

Also: Pyrotic cell death · pro-inflammatory lytic death

Intestinal Peyer's patches Organized accumulations of lymphoid follicles in the lamina propria of the ileum that monitor the bacteria of the intestinal lumen.

Also: Aggregated lymphatic follicles of the ileum · intestinal lymphoid plaques

Peptide cross-presentation Ability of certain dendritic cells to process exogenous antigens and present them in MHC class I molecules to CD8+ cells.

Also: Cross-antigenic presentation · cross-presentation

Serum properdin Plasma protein that stabilizes the C3 convertase of the alternative pathway on microbial surfaces, prolonging its half-life.

Also: P factor · Bb convertase stabilizer

Skin Mantoux test Intradermal assay that evaluates the cellular immune response against the purified protein derivative of Mycobacterium tuberculosis through skin induration.

Also: Tuberculin test · Cutaneous PPD

Clinical psychoneuroimmunology Scientific discipline that studies the mutual interactions between the endocrine system, the nervous system and the immune system

White splenic pulp Lymphoid area of the spleen organized around central arterioles that forms follicles to initiate adaptive responses.

Also: Lymphoid parenchyma of the spleen · splenic lymphoid pulp

Red splenic pulp Venous sinusoids and cellular cords responsible for filtering blood, eliminating aged erythrocytes and purifying immune complexes.

Also: Hemocatheteric parenchyma of the spleen · Billroth laces

Immune thrombocytopenic purpura Accelerated platelet destruction in the spleen due to the binding of autoantibodies to platelet membrane glycoproteins.

Also: ITP · thrombocytopenia of autoimmune origin

Competitive radioimmunoassay Highly sensitive analytical technique that uses antibodies and radioactive isotopes to very precisely quantify serum analytes.

Also: RIA competitive · immuno-radiometric assay

Type I allergic reaction Inflammatory response mediated by degranulation of mast cells coated by IgE after the binding of the corresponding allergen.

Also: Type I hypersensitivity · IgE-mediated local anaphylaxis

Induced Arthus reaction Local type III inflammation characterized by edema and tissue necrosis caused by intradermal injection of immunogens in sensitized hosts.

Also: Arthus Phenomenon · experimental vasculitis due to local immune complexes

Jones-Mote reaction Transient infiltration of basophils into the cutaneous dermis as a delayed response to repeated stimulation by soluble proteins.

Also: Jones-Mote hypersensitivity · basophil-mediated hypersensitivity

Cytotoxic type II reaction Tissue damage mediated by the binding of IgG or IgM antibodies to fixed cellular antigens from the host's own tissues.

Also: Type II hypersensitivity mediated by specific antibodies · direct immune cytotoxicity

Type III reaction by complexes Vascular inflammatory injury caused by the deposition of soluble immune complexes that activate serum proteins.

Also: Hypersensitivity due to immune complexes · vasculitis due to complex deposition

Cell-mediated type IV reaction Delayed tissue inflammatory response coordinated exclusively by cellular infiltration of effector T cells.

Also: Delayed cellular hypersensitivity · cellular type hypersensitivity response

Acute tissue graft rejection Destruction of the graft parenchyma mediated by the recipient's inflammatory cellular response of T cells against foreign MHC.

Also: Acute cellular rejection · acute post-transplant inflammation

Chronic tissue graft rejection Fibrosis and thickening of the arterial vascular intima in the graft that causes long-term progressive ischemia.

Also: Graft vasculopathy · chronic graft loss due to fibrosis

Hyperacute tissue graft rejection Vascular occlusion of the transplanted organ mediated by the binding of pre-existing antibodies to antigens of the vascular endothelium.

Also: Immediate vascular rejection · hyperacute graft failure

Somatic V(D)J recombination Random process of recombination of variable gene segments, diversity and union in immune cells in stages of development.

Also: Recombination of immune receptors · immunological gene shuffling

Hinge region Flexible segment rich in proline and cysteine of the antibody heavy chains that facilitates the adaptability of the Fab arms.

Also: Antibody flexibility region · hinge region

RIG-I Cytosolic RNA helicase that initiates the production of type I interferons after binding to viral RNA fragments with 5'-triphosphate ends.

Also: Retinoic acid-inducible gene I · DDX58

Antilymphocyte Rituximab Chimeric antibody specifically directed against CD20 that induces the depletion of circulating B cells.

Also: Anti-CD20 antibody Rituximab · depleter of mature B lymphocytes

ROR-gamma-t Orphan retinoic acid receptor that acts as a master transcription factor for the development of the Th17 cell lineage.

Also: RORgt · master differentiation factor Th17

SALT Organized immune cell population in the skin responsible for protecting the cellular integrity of the epidermal barrier.

Also: Lymphoid tissue associated with the skin · skin-associated lymphoid tissue

X-linked SCID Severe combined immunodeficiency caused by mutations in the common gamma chain of cellular cytokine receptors.

Also: Sex-linked severe combined immunodeficiency · common gamma chain deficiency

Humanized Secukinumab Human monoclonal antibody that selectively neutralizes interleukin-17A, inhibiting inflammation mediated by Th17 cells.

Also: Anti-IL-17A antibody · selective interleukin-17A blocker

Selectina E Adhesion glycoprotein transiently expressed in the vascular endothelium stimulated by inflammatory mediators that intervenes in leukocyte recruitment.

Also: CD62E · endothelial selectin

Selectina L Adhesion molecule constitutively expressed in most leukocytes that mediates the initial rolling on the vascular endothelium.

Also: CD62L · leukocyte selectin

Selectina P Preformed adhesion molecule stored in endothelial granules that rapidly translocates to the cell surface after tissue aggression.

Also: CD62P · platelet selectin

Active immunological synapse Zone of close physical contact between a T cell and a presenter that organizes receptors and intracellular activation cascades.

Also: Immune synapse · intercellular synaptic junction

Classic Chediak-Higashi syndrome Recessive disorder characterized by partial albinism and infections due to lysosomal trafficking defects that cause giant granules.

Also: Chediak-Higashi lysosomal trafficking defect · giant cellular granule syndrome

Complete DiGeorge syndrome Congenital anomaly characterized by thymic hypoplasia that causes a severe and selective deficiency of T cell-mediated immunity.

Also: Congenital thymic hypoplasia · thymic 22q11.2 deletion

Basal involvement Goodpasture syndrome Glomerulonephritis and pulmonary hemorrhage caused by specific autoantibodies directed against the alpha-3 chain of type IV collagen.

Also: Autoimmune renopulmonary syndrome · anti-glomerular basement membrane antibody disease

Classic Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome X-linked immunodeficiency characterized by microthrombocytopenia, eczema, and progressive susceptibility to infections.

Also: WAS · immunological deficiency with thrombocytopenia and eczema

Immunosuppressive sirolimus Drug that blocks the mTOR kinase pathway, inhibiting cell proliferation induced by growth-regulating cytokines.

Also: Rapamycin · inhibitor of the target of rapamycin in mammals

Sjögren's exocrine involvement Systemic disease characterized by lymphoid infiltration and progressive destruction of lacrimal and salivary glands.

Also: Sjögren's syndrome · autoimmune keratoconjunctivitis sicca

Cellular superoxide dismutase Enzyme responsible for catalyzing the dismutation of superoxide radicals into hydrogen peroxide, protecting tissues from oxidative stress.

Also: SOD · oxidative stress protective enzyme

Active immune suppression Negative regulation of adaptive responses actively exerted by regulatory cells or soluble immunosuppressive cytokines.

Also: Active suppression · immune inhibitory regulation

Syk Cytoplasmic tyrosine kinase involved in B cell receptor signaling by binding to phosphorylated cytoplasmic tails.

Also: Spleen tyrosine kinase · spleen tyrosine kinase

T-bet Transcription factor that directs the differentiation of naïve CD4+ cells towards the Th1-type inflammatory effector profile.

Also: master transcription factor Th1 · TBX21

Immunosuppressive tacrolimus Immunosuppressive drug that binds to FKBP12, blocking calcineurin phosphatase activity in activated T lymphocytes.

Also: FK506 · macrolide calcineurin inhibitor

TCR Heterodimeric membrane receptor expressed in T cells that recognizes processed peptides only when they are bound to corresponding histocompatibility molecules.

Also: T cell receptor · T cell receptor

TGF-beta Pleiotropic growth factor with immunosuppressive effects, promoter of wound healing and the differentiation of regulatory T cells.

Also: Transforming growth factor beta · immunosuppressive cytokine TGF-beta

Cortical thymus External area of the thymus populated by immature thymocytes that undergo positive selection dependent on their own MHC.

Also: Thymic cortex · cortical microenvironment of the thymus

Medullary thymus Internal thymic zone where mature thymocytes undergo negative selection eliminating self-reactive cell clones.

Also: Thymic cord · medullary microenvironment of the thymus

HLA typing by PCR Molecular biology method used to identify with high resolution the specific alleles of a patient's histocompatibility system.

Also: HLA genotyping · HLA molecular characterization

TLR1 Membrane pattern recognition receptor that forms heterodimers with TLR2 to detect triacyl lipopeptides of bacterial origin.

Also: Toll type receiver 1 · TLR1 gene

TLR2 Cell surface receptor that detects a wide range of microbial ligands such as bacterial peptidoglycans by associating with TLR1 or TLR6.

Also: Toll type receiver 2 · peptidoglycan detector

TLR3 Endosomal membrane receptor that selectively recognizes double-stranded RNA, a key intermediate in cellular viral replication.

Also: Toll type receiver 3 · dsRNA detector

TLR4 Transmembrane receptor coupled to the MD-2 protein that constitutes the main transducer of activation signals induced by bacterial lipopolysaccharides.

Also: Toll type receiver 4 · LPS endotoxin detector

TLR5 Surface receptor that specifically recognizes bacterial flagellin, the structural component of the filaments of the bacterial flagellum.

Also: Toll type receiver 5 · flagellin detector

TLR7 Receptor located in the endosomal membrane that binds to single-stranded RNA rich in guanosine or uracil of viral origin.

Also: Toll type receiver 7 · viral ssRNA detector

TLR9 Endosomal receptor that detects DNA sequences with unmethylated CpG dinucleotides present mainly in bacteria and viral genomes.

Also: Toll type receiver 9 · CpG DNA detector

TNF-alpha Multifunctional proinflammatory cytokine produced by macrophages that induces endothelial adhesion, fever, cachexia and acute systemic responses.

Also: Tumor necrosis factor alpha · cachectin

Humanized tocilizumab Monoclonal antibody directed against the IL-6 receptor that potently blocks the systemic effects of interleukin-6.

Also: IL-6 receptor blocker

Central tolerance in thymus Elimination by apoptosis of immature thymocytes whose receptors recognize their own antigens with high affinity during their maturation.

Also: Cellular central tolerance · center negative selection

Selective Ustekinumab Human antibody that blocks the common p40 subunit of interleukins 12 and 23, inhibiting Th1 and Th17 differentiation.

Also: Anti-IL-12/IL-23 antibody · p40 subunit blocker

Dendritic cell vaccine Oncological immunotherapy that uses presenting cells loaded ex vivo with tumor peptides to induce adaptive cellular responses.

Also: Immunization with loaded presenting cells · cellular tumor vaccine

Periarteriolar lymphatic sheath Area of the spleen rich in T cells that surrounds the central arterioles of the splenic white pulp.

Also: PALS · splenic periarteriolar sheath

VCAM-1 Vascular cell adhesion molecule that mediates the attachment of mononuclear white blood cells to the active endothelium by binding to VLA-4.

Also: CD106 · vascular cell adhesion molecule 1

High endothelial venules Specialized vessels in secondary lymphoid organs with cuboidal endothelium that facilitates the extravasation of virgin immune cells.

Also: HEV · high endothelial venules

Cytosolic processing pathway Degradation of endogenous proteins in the cellular proteasome and transport of peptides to the reticulum to bind to MHC class I.

Also: Proteasomal processing · endogenous route of presentation

Endocytic processing pathway Degradation route of proteins captured in vesicular compartments for loading into MHC class II molecules.

Also: Lysosomal processing · exogenous route of presentation

VLA-4 Integrin beta-1 that mediates the adhesion of immune cells to the inflamed endothelium by specifically binding to the VCAM-1 molecule.

Also: Very late antigen 4 · CD49d/CD29

Western Immunological Blot Technique of transferring proteins separated by electrophoresis to a membrane that are revealed using specific labeling antibodies.

Also: Immunoblotting · immunological analysis of membrane proteins

Cell xenograft Organ transplant performed between individuals of phylogenetically different species that induces violent destructive vascular rejection.

Also: Xenotransplantation · heterologous graft

ZAP-70 Tyrosine kinase that binds to the phosphorylated zeta chains of the TCR, propagating the lymphoid intracellular signaling cascade.

Also: Zeta chain-associated 70 kDa protein kinase · ZAP70 kinase

Marginal zone of spleen Area that delimits the splenic white pulp rich in B cells specialized in responding against capsulated bacteria.

Also: Splenic marginal zone · microenvironment of the marginal zone

Paracortical zone Area of the lymph node rich in T cells and dendritic cells, where the presentation of immune peptides takes place.

Also: Paracortex of the ganglion · T cell zone of the lymph node

Immunology

Other glossary specialties