REFLECTIONS

Currently, I'm learning about the classification of the Immunoglobulins. There are five isotypes in the human immunoglobulins, which are IgD, IgE, IgM, IgA, and IgG. These immunoglobulins have different structures and functions. IgA secretes antibodies in the mucosal membrane, IgG help control infections against bacteria, viruses, and parasites, IgM is the first antibody to respond to antigen exposure, IgE plays a role in response to allergens and IgD assists with the maturation of B cells. All these information are relevant to my career goal as a hematologist/oncologist. Most patients I come across with would be those with a B cell deficiency and T-cell deficiency & in most cases, it would be B cell deficiency. 

For instance, I come across a six-year-old patient with leukemia, which is excessive, uncontrolled proliferation of the B cell. Also, this course helps me in understanding more about my health. The diagrams on the powerpoint help me visualize what occurs in the body. You tend to write on the board more often that's quite helpful too. So far, I understand this chapter. Two things that are confusing are 1. The quote: "All immunogens are antigens, but not all antigens are immunogens." Can you please elaborate on what this quote means; because I wrote on the quiz that antigens bind to receptors on lymphocytes, and they induce an immune response, but not all antigens evoke an immune response, but I only got half a point. Another question I do not understand is: What advantage could there be in having an immune system that generates billions of lymphocytes that do not recognize any known infectious agent? I got this question wrong. If you can, please clarify these questions. 
This course has changed my perspective on everything. Like recently, someone was prescribed Hydroxyurea, and I automatically thought SCD, then I looked up on the internet if this drug helps with one type of sickle cell or both [anemia & thalassemia]. Then, I searched up the mechanism of Hydroxyurea in the body--production of fetal Hb in the bone marrow--as well as side effects. Even in little things, like when someone sneezes or coughs next to me, I slightly get irritated because and I sanitize my hands. 

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Work cited

• "Microbiology and Microbiology Jokes to Share." Pinterest. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Oct. 2016. <https://www.pinterest.com/pin/478648266621532976/>.