Humoral immunity Flashcards

1
Q

What does the humoral immune system respond to

A

Pathogens found in body fluids (mainly the blood stream, but also in the tissue fluid that surrounds the cell)

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2
Q

Where do B-cells mature in

A

Bone marrow

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3
Q

What are the 2 types of B-cells

A
  • Plasma cells
  • Memory cells
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4
Q

Describe the function of plasma cells

A

Produce antibodies

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5
Q

Describe the function of memory cells

A

Divide rapidly and differentiate into plasma cells if they encounter the same antigen again

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6
Q

When does humoral immunity occur?

A

Humoral immunity is a response to infection in body fluids such as blood plasma (this used to be called ‘humour’, hence the name humoral immunity). This can include bacteria, toxins, antigens or abnormal cells.

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7
Q

Describe the response of B-lymphocytes to a foreign antigen (humoral response)

A
  • Each type of B cell has a different type of antibody on its surface. These will bind to any complementary antigens in the blood stream or tissue fluid.
  • The antigen enters the cell by endocytosis.
  • The antigen is presented on the cell surface membrane. We say that it has been ‘processed’.
  • T Helper cells bind to the processed antigen, stimulating the B cell to divide by mitosis – this is called clonal selection.
  • The B cell clones develop into one of two cells: Plasma cells secrete antibodies to destroy the pathogen, however they only live a few days. This is the primary response. Memory cells live for decades. When the same pathogen is encountered, they divide rapidly into more plasma cells and memory cells. This is the secondary response
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8
Q

Why is it important that the B cells produce many clones of itself

A

So they have the same receptors and can therefore bind to the same antigens

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