2.8 Adaptive (specific) Immune Response Flashcards
(32 cards)
What is the third line of defense in the immune system?
Specific/acquired immunity
This line of defense relies on antigens found in foreign microbes.
What are antigens?
Specific substances found in foreign microbes that stimulate an immune response
Most antigens are proteins.
What distinguishes the adaptive immune response from the innate immune system?
It is more specific and retains memory of pathogens
This allows for a more rapid response upon re-exposure.
What are the two main features of the adaptive immune response?
- Specificity
- Memory
What is humoral immunity?
A type of specific immune response involving B cells
What is cell-mediated immunity?
A type of specific immune response involving T cells
What are lymphocytes?
White blood cells produced in response to an antigen
Where do B lymphocytes mature?
In the bone marrow
‘B’ stands for bone marrow.
Where do T lymphocytes mature?
In the thymus gland
‘T’ stands for thymus.
What are the two main types of lymphocytes?
- T cells
- B cells
What is the role of antibodies?
Y-shaped proteins produced in response to antigens that recognize and bind to specific antigens
What are B plasma cells?
Cells that manufacture specific antibodies that recognize and bind to antigens
What are B memory cells?
Cells that act like B plasma cells upon re-exposure to an antigen to produce antibodies
What is the function of Killer T cells?
To destroy cells carrying foreign antigens
What is the role of Helper T cells?
To assist other cells in responding to antigens and activate B cells
What do Suppressor T cells do?
Regulate B and T cells and slow down the immune response
What is the primary immune response?
The response occurring the first time the immune system encounters a particular antigen
What is the secondary immune response?
The response occurring upon subsequent exposure to the same antigen, characterized by rapid antibody production
What characterizes the primary immune response?
A lag period of 4-7 days and a maximum response in 7-10 days
What characterizes the secondary immune response?
A shorter lag period of 1-3 days and a maximum response in 3-5 days
What is naturally acquired immunity?
Immunity gained through natural exposure to pathogens
What is artificially acquired immunity?
Immunity gained through medical treatment, such as vaccines
What is passive immunity?
Immunity where antibodies are passed from one person to another, temporary and does not develop memory cells
What is active immunity?
Immunity that develops when a person is exposed to microorganisms, resulting in the production of memory cells
