What are the differences between innate and adaptive immunity in the immune system?

Our body's immune system is responsible for providing protection against bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. The immune system consists of two types of immunity: innate and adaptive immunity. Although both the types of immunity are essential, they differ in their mechanism, specificity, and response time.

Innate Immunity:

Innate immunity, also known as natural or non-specific immunity, is the body's first line of defense. It is a rapid response mechanism that provides immediate protection against invading pathogens. Innate immunity is present at birth, and it is comprised of physical barriers (like skin), cellular barriers (like natural killer cells), and chemical barriers (like antimicrobial peptides).

Adaptive Immunity:

Adaptive immunity, also known as acquired or specific immunity, is a slower and specific response. The adaptive immunity adapts to a specific pathogen by creating a memory of it. In the case of re-exposure, the immune system produces a rapid and efficient response due to the memory of the response it developed against the pathogen. The adaptive immunity is developed throughout our lifetime.

The main differences between innate and adaptive immunity in the immune system are:

• Innate immunity is present at birth, while adaptive immunity is developed throughout our lifetime.
• Innate immunity is a rapid and non-specific response, while adaptive immunity is a slower and specific response.
• Innate immunity uses physical, cellular, and chemical barriers, while adaptive immunity uses lymphocytes and antibodies.
• Innate immunity does not develop memory, while adaptive immunity develops immunological memory.
• Innate immunity cannot provide long-term protection, while adaptive immunity can provide long-term protection.
• Innate immunity is similar in all individuals, while adaptive immunity varies among individuals.