The immune response is the body's defense mechanism against harmful invaders, such as bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. When these invaders enter the body, the immune system recognizes them as foreign and activates various cells and proteins to fight them off. This process involves two main types of immunity: innate immunity, which provides immediate but non-specific defense, and adaptive immunity, which develops a targeted response over time. During the immune response, white blood cells play a crucial role. They identify and destroy pathogens through various means, including producing antibodies that specifically target the invaders. Additionally, the immune system has a memory component, allowing it to respond more effectively to future infections by the same pathogen.