The familiar unpleasant symptoms of coughing, sneezing, vomiting, and restless nights may seem never-ending. However, it is crucial to comprehend the reasons behind these symptoms. Our cells also face substantial challenges similar to us. The microscopic realm is more intricate than commonly perceived by people. Elie Mitchnikoff, a renowned biologist, dedicated his research to expanding our understanding of the immune system.
Elie Mitchnikoff was awarded the Noble Prize in Medicine in 1882 for his research on phagocytosis. He studied this process by conducting experiments on starfish larvae, focusing on phagocytes – a type of leukocytes. Phagocytosis refers to the consumption and engulfing of foreign substances within our bodies, such as microbes, bacteria, debris, and damaged or dying tissue cells. Even in the presence of cuts and bruises, our bodies demonstrate remarkable abilities.
Our bodies work tirelessly to keep us healthy by utilizing our Immune system. To gain a better understanding of phagocytosis, we must delve deeper into this subject. There are two forms of immunity: Innate immunity (also known as nonspecific immunity) and adaptive immunity (also referred to as specific immunity). Innate or nonspecific immunity can be further divided into two parts, namely the first line of defense and the second line of defense, both of which have been present since birth.
Nonspecific immunity, also known as innate immunity, is the body’s ability to react to foreign substances without knowing their specific type. This response is typically triggered by identifying harmful agents, regardless of what they are exactly. While these responses do not involve memory, they are vital in safeguarding the body. Initially, defense mechanisms include physical and chemical barriers like the skin, stomach acid, and acidic oils on the skin’s surface. The skin acts as a protective barrier that prevents the penetration of foreign substances into the body and thus prevents illness.
The second line of defense consists of various components that engage in the process of phagocytosis, including phagocytes, antimicrobial substances, natural killer cells, inflammation, and fever. Innate immunity does not discriminate between different microbes but instead mounts a response to all microbes equally. On the other hand, adaptive immunity or specific immunity serves as the body’s defense mechanism against particular invading antigens such as bacteria, toxins viruses, and foreign tissues. This form of immunity relies on previous exposure. When an individual exhibits resistance to a specific virus, bacteria, or other pathogens, it is due to their adaptive immunity.
The immune system’s primary goal is safeguarding the body against harmful pathogens by triggering an inflammatory response. Pathogens, such as viruses, fungi, proteins, bacteria, and parasites, are responsible for causing diseases. In order to avoid fatal consequences, the second line of defense works towards engulfing and eliminating these pathogens once they enter the body. Phagocytes play a vital role in this process as they possess receptors that identify harmful substances within the body. It should be emphasized that phagocytes exclusively belong to the innate immune system.
There are two main types of cells, neutrophils and macrophages, that consume pathogens. These cells are called phagocytes. When there is an infection, neutrophils and monocytes migrate to the affected area in a process known as emigration. This process involves white blood cells leaving the bloodstream. As they move, the monocyte transforms into a larger form called a wandering macrophage with enhanced abilities to consume pathogens. Phagocytosis comprises five stages: chemotaxis, adherence, ingestion, digestion, and destruction. The first stage is chemotaxis.
Phagocytes are chemotactically drawn to the site of injury, which may result from pathogens, white blood cells, or damaged tissue cells. Upon reaching the location, phagocytes adhere to the foreign material and subsequently engulf it employing pseudopods that function akin to hands. These pseudopods converge to form a sac termed a phagosome, enclosing the organism requiring elimination.
After the initial phase of phagocytosis, where a phagosome combines with lysosomes in the cytoplasm, digestion takes place. This process includes the secretion of lysozmes, enzymes, and oxidants to break down microbial cell walls. The last step is destruction, during which any remaining substances that cannot be further broken down are referred to as residual bodies and leave the phagocyte. Moreover, phagocytosis plays a significant role in adaptive immunity. Having knowledge of anatomy and physiology is vital in my line of work.
My immediate goal is to gain acceptance into San Jacinto’s RN program, which requires a two-year commitment. During this time, I will strive to earn an associates of applied science degree in nursing. Following that, I intend to transfer to the University of Texas and pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Ultimately, my aspiration is to become a pediatric oncology nurse at MD Anderson Cancer Center, where I can provide care for young patients and their families facing cancer. To thrive in this role, it is crucial to possess a solid grasp of fundamental principles such as genetics, biochemistry, and cancer physiology.
To enter the field of oncology nursing, it is typically necessary to obtain a nursing degree that can range from two to four years. However, many employers prefer candidates who have earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). In addition to their nursing skills, cancer nurses must possess both strong compassion and knowledge in pain control. Oncology nurses can advance their careers through various avenues such as clinical practice, continuing education studies, certification programs, and advanced degree programs. The Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation provides certification for different types of oncology nurses including Oncology Certified Nurses (OCN), Advanced Oncology Certified Nurses (AOCN), and Certified Pediatric Oncology Nurses (CPON).
The Oncology Nursing Society offers different roles in cancer care, such as a cancer chemotherapy program, oncology clinical nurse specialist, and oncology nurse practitioner. Moreover, advanced practice nurses conduct research to improve care for those with cancer. Hence, Anatomy and Physiology are vital to my career as they serve as the basis for my future endeavors. This course marks the beginning of a new chapter in my life where I will not only have a passion for my profession but also the chance to make a positive impact on people’s lives.
