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Immunology Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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immunology

[ɪˌmjunəˈlɑdʒi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

scientific field

Immunology is a branch of biomedical science that deals with the study of the immune system. It encompasses the understanding of how the body defends itself against infections, diseases, and various pathogens. This discipline explores both the innate and adaptive immune responses, highlighting the roles of different immune cells, antibodies, and signalling molecules. Immunologists study diseases linked to immune dysfunction, such as allergies, autoimmune disorders, and immunodeficiencies. The field is crucial for vaccine development, understanding disease mechanisms, and developing therapeutic interventions.

Synonyms

allergy science, autoimmunity studies, immune science.

Examples of usage

  • Immunology helps in the development of vaccines.
  • She pursued a career in immunology after her studies.
  • Recent advancements in immunology have revolutionized treatments.
  • Immunology plays a critical role in understanding COVID-19.
  • Research in immunology has implications for cancer therapies.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • Immunology as a formal science began with Edward Jenner's smallpox vaccination in 1796, marking the first vaccination.
  • Louis Pasteur's work in the late 1800s was pivotal for the field, leading to vaccines for diseases like rabies and anthrax.

Pop Culture

  • The concept of immunization is often featured in movies where characters face pandemics, emphasizing the importance of vaccines.
  • In video games, 'immunology' might relate to how characters gain resistance against diseases or poisons, highlighting the concept of health management.

Science

  • Immunology includes the study of antibodies, which are proteins that help identify and neutralize foreign objects like bacteria and viruses.
  • Researchers in immunology are also exploring immunotherapy, a treatment that uses the body's own immune system to fight cancer.

Society

  • The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the vital role of immunologists in developing vaccines and treatments to protect public health.
  • Understanding immunology is crucial for global health initiatives, especially in combating infectious diseases and pandemics.

Origin of 'immunology'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'immunis', meaning exempt or free from, which hints at protection from disease.
  • The suffix '-ology' means the study of, giving immunology its meaning as the study of the immune system.

The term 'immunology' is derived from the Latin word 'immunis', which means 'exempt' or 'free from burdens', referring to the body's ability to defend itself from disease. The field began to take shape in the late 19th century with the work of scientists such as Louis Pasteur and Robert Koch, who established foundational concepts in immunization and infectious disease. The introduction of vaccines marked a significant advancement in immunological science, leading to the control of diseases like smallpox and rabies. Over the 20th century, immunology expanded rapidly with the discovery of antibodies, T and B cell functions, and the complexity of the immune response. Today, immunology is a vital area of research with implications in medicine, biotechnology, and public health, particularly in the context of diseases like HIV/AIDS, cancer, and the recent COVID-19 pandemic.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,120, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.