What does immunology study?

Immunology is the branch of biomedical science that focuses on the immune system — the body’s defense mechanism against infections, diseases, and foreign substances. It studies how immune cells, antibodies, and signaling molecules work together to detect and destroy harmful pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Immunology also examines autoimmune diseases, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, and allergies, which result from overreactions to harmless substances. This field plays a key role in vaccine development, cancer immunotherapy, and organ transplantation. Understanding immunology helps doctors design treatments that strengthen or regulate immune responses effectively.