What is the focus of immunology?

Immunology primarily focuses on understanding the physiological mechanisms that defend the body against pathogens and harmful substances. It encompasses the study of the immune system, which includes various cells, tissues, and organs that work together to recognize and eliminate foreign invaders such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. This field of study involves exploring how the body mounts responses to infections, how immune cells communicate with one another, and how immunity develops, both in response to infections and through vaccinations.

A solid grasp of immunological principles is essential for developing therapeutic interventions, vaccines, and diagnostic tools aimed at enhancing immune responses or mitigating immunological disorders. By focusing on these physiological mechanisms, immunology provides insights into both innate and adaptive immunity, immune memory, and how to harness these processes to improve health outcomes.