The main topic of the text is the immune system of insects, including immune priming, transgenerational immunity, and the Dscam gene's role in pathogen recognition. It also discusses RNA interference as an antiviral defense and compares these mechanisms to vertebrates' adaptive immunity. The evolution and function of the acquired immune system in vertebrates are highlighted, showcasing the complexity and specificity of immune responses across different species.
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Insects possess a unique form of immune memory known as immune priming, which allows them to mount a more robust defense against pathogens they have previously encountered
Alternative Splicing
The Dscam gene can produce a vast diversity of protein isoforms through alternative splicing of its exons, which encode immunoglobulin domains
Specificity in Pathogen Recognition
The Dscam gene allows hemocytes to distinguish between a wide array of pathogens, producing isoforms that bind specifically to the encountered pathogen
RNA interference is a crucial antiviral defense mechanism in insects, targeting viral RNA to prevent replication
Vertebrates have a complex adaptive immune system characterized by the presence of memory B cells and T cells, capable of remembering specific antigens and mounting a rapid and potent response upon subsequent exposures
Appearance in Jawed Vertebrates
The acquired immune system first appeared in jawed vertebrates around 500 million years ago
V(D)J Recombination
The diversity of the immune response is generated through V(D)J recombination, allowing for the production of a vast array of unique antigen receptors from a limited genetic repertoire
Immunological memory in vertebrates can be acquired actively through natural infection or vaccination, or passively through the transfer of antibodies
00
Insects have a form of immune memory called ______, which enhances their defense against familiar pathogens.
immune priming
01
Unlike vertebrates, insects do not have adaptive immunity because they lack ______ and ______ cells.
B
T
02
Dscam gene function in insect immunity
Produces diverse protein isoforms for pathogen recognition via alternative splicing.
