[Crosstalk between innate and adaptive immunity]

Most of microorganisms are detected and destroyed within hours by innate immunity which does not generate lasting protective immunity. Innate immunity is mainly mediated by macrophages, dendritic cells and NK cells. Adaptive response is mediated by antigen-specific lymphocytes, which generate specific immunological memory, providing long-lasting protection. Th1 cells produce interferon (IFN)-gamma which mediate cell-mediate immunity, while Th2 cells help B cell to produce antibody via IL-4, 5, 6 production. Tr cells producing IL-10 are responsible for termination of excessive immune inflammations. IFN are divided into two main classes: type I IFN such as IFN-alpha, beta and type II IFN (IFN -gamma), both of which serve not only to bridge the gap between innate and adaptive immunity but also to shape subsequent development of adaptive immunity.