Physiology
Immune
Relating to the body's defense system against pathogens and foreign substances. The immune system distinguishes self from non-self and mounts responses to threats.
Biological Context
Immunity includes innate defenses (skin, inflammation) and adaptive responses (antibodies, T cells). Immune memory enables faster responses to previously encountered threats. Autoimmune diseases occur when the system attacks self. Immunodeficiency leaves organisms vulnerable.
Business Application
Organizational immunity: systems for detecting and responding to threats—fraud detection, quality control, security protocols. Effective immunity distinguishes real threats from false alarms. Autoimmune problems (internal conflict) and immunodeficiency (inadequate defenses) both cause damage.