Hot dog buns and vampire dogs: Understanding the immune system's response to pathogens

The immune system has evolved unique strategies to combat different types of pathogens. When dealing with viruses, the immune system uses T cells to kill infected cells and antibodies to neutralize the virus. Bacteria, on the other hand, are targeted by neutrophils and other innate immune cells that release chemicals and DNA nets to trap and degrade the bacteria. The immune system's ability to recognize and respond to pathogens is facilitated by the diversity of MHC molecules, which act as hot dog buns presenting bacterial and viral proteins to T cells. The immune response is coordinated in lymph nodes, where T cells and B cells receive orders from each other and specific antibodies are produced to target the pathogen. This complex interaction is the result of millions of years of evolution and ensures the body's defense against harmful invaders.