Passive transfer of immunity refers to the process in which pre-formed antibodies or immune cells are transferred from one individual to another for the purpose of providing immediate protection against a specific antigen or pathogen. This transfer can occur naturally, such as through the placenta from a mother to her fetus, or it can be artificially induced through medical interventions.
When an individual is exposed to a certain pathogen or antigen, their immune system produces specific antibodies to combat it. These antibodies are capable of recognizing and neutralizing the pathogen, preventing infection and promoting recovery. In the passive transfer of immunity, an individual is provided with these antibodies or immune cells directly rather than producing them on their own.
This type of immunity transfer can occur through various means, such as the administration of immune serum or immunoglobulin preparations, which contain a concentrated supply of antibodies against specific infections. Furthermore, the transfer of immunity can also take place through breast milk, as it contains antibodies produced by the mother's immune system.
Passive transfer of immunity is often utilized in situations where immediate protection is needed or when an individual's immune system is compromised. For instance, newborn infants have underdeveloped immune systems, so passive immunity acquired from the mother's antibodies is crucial for their protection against infections until their own immune system matures.
In summary, passive transfer of immunity is the transfer of pre-formed antibodies or immune cells from one individual to another to offer immediate, temporary protection against a particular antigen or pathogen.
