Weekly Connections with Brian Lafontaine July 27, 2025
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The immune system is a complex and specialized network of cells, tissues, and organs working together to identify foreign pathogens and eliminate them. These harmful invaders can include viruses, toxins, bacteria, and fungi. The immune system consists of two main parts: the first line of defense, called innate immunity, and the targeted response system, called adaptive immunity. Innate immunity is an immediate response to invaders and includes physical barriers, such as the skin, as well as internal defenses like inflammation. Although innate immunity is a quick response to pathogens, it is non-specific and keeps no memory of invaders which have been previously encountered.
Adaptive immunity is specialized and remembers previous invaders of the body. The primary white blood cells of this branch of immunity are B cells and T cells. B cells are responsible for producing antibodies which can bind to foreign substances to neutralize them. There are two main types of T cells, Cytotoxic T cells which destroy infected cells and Helper T cells which direct other immune cells to fight infection.
There are several organs and tissues involved in the functionality of the immune system. Today we will focus on the gut and how it impacts immune function. We have previously discussed the importance of gut microbiota, but did you know that this plays a crucial role in supporting immune function? In fact, approximately 70% of the body’s immune cells are found in the gut. A balanced gut microbiome promotes proper development of immune cells and helps to regulate inflammation. More specifically, healthy gut bacteria produce short-chain fatty acids to help maintain a balanced immune response. A balanced gut microbiome also ensures the integrity of the gut lining to aid in the prevention of pathogens and toxins from crossing into the bloodstream. When the gut lining is compromised, harmful invaders can enter the body, triggering an immune response that can lead to chronic inflammation and contribute to allergies, autoimmune diseases, and systemic diseases.
Join me next time for part 2 where I will further discuss the connection between gut health and immune system regulation as well as ways in which you can enhance your well-being to promote a healthy immune system.
