The immune system recognizes pathogens through a variety of receptors on immune cells. The innate immune system uses pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) to detect common molecular patterns found on pathogens, known as pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). The adaptive immune system relies on antigen receptors on T and B cells that specifically recognize and bind to unique antigens on pathogens. This recognition is the first step in mounting an effective immune response.
