immunology - primary and secondary responses Flashcards
(16 cards)
What is a Primary Response in the immune system?
First exposure to antigen
The initial immune response when the immune system encounters an antigen for the first time.
What is a Secondary Response in the immune system?
Subsequent exposures (memory response)
The immune response that occurs upon re-exposure to the same antigen, utilizing memory cells.
What is the lag time for a Primary Response?
4–7 days
The time it takes for the immune system to respond during the first exposure to an antigen.
What is the magnitude of antibody production in a Primary Response?
Low magnitude (small antibody production)
The initial response produces fewer antibodies compared to subsequent exposures.
What type of antibodies are mainly produced during the Primary Response?
IgM antibodies
The primary antibody produced in response to the first exposure to an antigen.
What is the memory cell production like in a Primary Response?
Weak memory cell production
The initial exposure generates fewer memory cells compared to later exposures.
What characterizes the Secondary Response?
Re-exposure to the same antigen
This response leverages memory cells generated from the primary response.
What is the lag time for a Secondary Response?
1–3 days
The time it takes for the immune system to respond during re-exposure to an antigen.
What is the magnitude of antibody production in a Secondary Response?
Stronger (larger antibody production)
The immune system produces significantly more antibodies during the secondary exposure.
What types of antibodies are mainly produced during the Secondary Response?
IgG antibodies (also IgA, IgE)
IgG is the dominant antibody in secondary responses, with IgA and IgE also being produced.
What is the memory cell activation like in a Secondary Response?
Strong memory cell activation
The re-exposure leads to a robust activation of memory cells for a quicker response.
What are the characteristics of the Primary Response graph?
Slow, low peak, short-lasting
The visual representation shows the gradual increase of antibodies during the initial response.
What are the characteristics of the Secondary Response graph?
Quick, high peak, long-lasting
The visual representation shows a rapid increase in antibodies during re-exposure.
What is the basis for vaccination in relation to Primary and Secondary Responses?
Vaccines create artificial primary response
Vaccination simulates the first exposure to prepare the immune system for a faster secondary response.
What do Memory T and B cells do?
Survive long-term and can quickly react to known antigens
These cells are crucial for providing long-term immunity against previously encountered pathogens.
Fill in the blank: Vaccines are a _______ for the immune system.
Training session
Vaccines help prepare the immune system to respond effectively to real infections.
