Growth & Death
Molecules and Signalling
Protein Synthesis
ATP Production
Electrolytes
Cell Structures
Tissue Structure
Cardiac Output
Cardiac Cycle
Circulation
Special Circulations
Pulmonary Ventilation
Gas Exchange
Regulation of Respiration
Mouth
Stomach
Small Intestine
Large Intestine
Liver
Vitamins
Other
Nephron
Micturition
Regulation
Embryology
Hormones and Regulation
Fetal Physiology
Pregnancy
Components
Synapses
Sensory System
Motor System
Ocular Physiology
Thyroid and Parathyroid Glands
Adrenal Glands
The Pancreas
Hypothalamus and Pituitary
Cells of the Immune System
Innate Immune System
Adaptive Immune System
Immune Responses
Infections
Haematology
The adaptive immune response is often considered the second line of defence the body has against infection. As its name suggests, the response is “adapted” depending on the specific pathogen present and it allows the development of immunological memory to prevent re-infection. The end point of this response is the production of antigen-specific antibodies to target pathogens.
T cells form a major part of the adaptive immune response but they can only recognise antigens when they are displayed on cell surfaces. This is carried out by Antigen-presenting cells (APCs), the most important of which are dendritic cells, B cells and macrophages. APCs can digest proteins they encounter and display peptide fragments from them on their surfaces for another immune cell to recognise.
There are several subtypes of T cells, these include: T helper cells, T memory cells and cytotoxic T cells. These cells have distinct functions and they work together in a complex network involving other immune cells to combat disease. They also help with long term defence against infection by development of immunological memory.
by Ade Folorunso
by Maab Elsaddig
by Bethany Moody
Please enter your username or email address below. You will receive a link to create a new password via emai and please check that the email hasn't been delivered into your spam folder.
We use cookies to improve your experience on our site and to show you relevant advertising. To find out more, read our privacy policy.