Biology - Inflammation

Question

Describe how mediators differ between acute and chronic inflammatory response?

Answer 1

Hi Annique,

Inflammation generally can be thought of as cells rushing to and from the site of trauma. Mediators of inflammation drive these cells towards that point and act as a lure or beacon, directing cells on where to go. Keep this in mind while we break down the question -

Acute inflammation often stems from a minor trauma or initial trauma in which you can see and feel the response. The cells that rush towards this area can include neutrophils, eosinophils or macrophages to attempt to fight off initial pathogens that may invade or have already invaded. This results in a quick response but small duration of inflammation. Another goal of acute inflammation is to tackle the problem head on and eliminate it. This is done by using Vasodilators the compliment system, IL-1 and IL-6 and granulocytes, interferon as chemical mediators to activate the aforementioned cells and fight off pathogens.

Chronic Inflammation is less observable typically but the results of it can still feel equally as bad as acute. It typically can be seen aiding the humoral or adaptive immune system using T-helper cells and B-cells to create memory of infection. This is done by using chemical mediators like cytokines produced by T cells to direct other lymphocytes (T and B cells) on where to go (in this case the cite of trauma/infection).