Core principles characterizing immune function

Abstract

The immune system is an anticipatory mechanism designed by evolution to protect the individual against noxious agents and harmful cellular debris. In order to recognize substances that it has never encountered, the immune system somatically generates an appropriately sized random (with respect to self and nonself [NS]) recognitive repertoire that is coupled to a biodestructive and ridding output. Consequently, a Self–NS discrimination is required in order to avoid autoimmunity. This essay is an attempt to highlight the core principles upon which this anticipatory mechanism depends in order to function.