The immune response is the body's way of defending itself against harmful invaders like bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. When these invaders enter the body, the immune system recognizes them as foreign and activates a series of actions to eliminate them. This includes the production of special cells, such as white blood cells, that seek out and destroy the invaders, as well as the release of antibodies that help neutralize threats. There are two main types of immune responses: the innate immune response, which is the body's first line of defense and acts quickly, and the adaptive immune response, which takes longer to develop but provides long-lasting protection. Together, these responses work to keep the body healthy and free from infections.