Immunology encompasses the study of the immune system in all organisms. This includes research into the development of the immune system, as well as its daily functions and dysfunctions. The immune system protects us from infection through various lines of defence. If the immune system is not functioning as it should it can result in disease, such as autoimmunity, allergy and cancer.
Recent research has shown that our immune system plays an important role in the development of many common disorders not traditionally viewed as immunologic, including metabolic and neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. Research into immunology involves studying the components that make up the innate and adaptive immune systems.