Communication between these cells occur by interferons, interleukines and other chemical messagers that govern the immune system. There should be a balance between helper and suppresser T cells. Acupuncture restores this balance. The body's way to defend against infections, cancers, viruses, and foreign substances is to identify, destroy, inactivate or eliminate them. The blood system is controlled by the B lymphocytes that produce antibodies.
Antibodies are proteins that defend against bacteria and viruses found in body fluids.
The cellular immune system responds against cancer cells and viruses that are inside the body's cells. They are aided by T lymphocytes and macrophages whose job it is to surround and dissolve the invaders. An overactive immune system cannot distinguish between self and non self and is at risk for allergies and auto immune disease such as arthritis. Immune dysfunction can contribute to the development and spread of cancer. Acupuncture can stimulate and balance the immune system.