Immunology & Immunogenetics

Nutritional immunity is a process by which a host organism separates trace minerals in an effort to limit pathogenicity during infection. Circulating concentrations of minerals, such as iron and zinc, decrease immediately and dramatically with the inflammation associated with infection. The deterioration in iron and zinc is thought to starve invading pathogens of these essential elements, limiting disease progression and severity.

Immunohematology is the study of the reactions that take place between antigens present on blood cells and antibodies present in plasma. It may also be described as the study of RBC antigens and antibodies associated with blood transfusions.