Chapter 13 - Adaptive Immunity

These flashcards summarize key terms and concepts related to adaptive immunity, including definitions of important vocabulary.

Adaptive Immunity

The third and final line of defense where immune cells recognize and remember specific pathogens.

Antigens

Molecules that can be recognized by the immune system to stimulate a reaction by B cells or T cells.

Immunogens

Antigens that provoke a response from the immune system.

Specificity

Characteristic of immunity where antibodies produced against one pathogen do not function against another.

Memory Immune Response

The ability of lymphocytes to recall their first engagement with an invader.

B Cells

A type of lymphocyte involved in the humoral immune response, which produces antibodies.

Plasma Cells

Cells that arise from activated B cells and secrete antibodies into the bloodstream.

T Cells

Lymphocytes involved in cell-mediated immunity, which includes helper and cytotoxic cells.

T Helper Cells

T cells that activate macrophages and assist B cells and cytotoxic T cells.

Regulatory T Cells

T cells that control the immune response by secreting anti-inflammatory cytokines.

Cytotoxic T Cells

T cells that destroy infected host cells and other foreign cells.

Antigen-Presenting Cells (APCs)

Cells that engulf microbes, degrade them, and present antigens to T helper cells.

Cell-Mediated Immunity

Immune response characterized by the direct attack of cells by cytotoxic T cells.

Humoral Immunity

Immune response that involves antibodies secreted by B cells.

Interleukins

Cytokines that activate B and T cells during the adaptive immune response.

Clonal Selection

The process by which B cells are activated to produce identical antibodies for one antigen.

Immunoglobulins

Proteins produced by B cells that function as antibodies.

Natural Immunity

Immunity acquired through normal biological experiences, such as infections.

Artificial Immunity

Protection obtained through medical means, such as vaccinations.

Passive Immunity

Immunity provided by receiving antibodies from another individual, lasting a short duration.

Active Immunity

Immunity that develops when B and T cells are stimulated to produce antibodies after exposure to an antigen.

Artificial Active Immunity

Immunity resulting from vaccination, which primes the immune response for future exposure.

Qualities of an Ideal Vaccine

Properties that vaccines should possess, such as safety, efficacy, and lasting protection.

Complement Proteins

Proteins that aid in the destruction of pathogens by enhancing phagocytosis and cell lysis.

Secondary Immune Response

The faster and stronger immune response elicited by memory cells upon re-exposure to the same pathogen.

Vaccine

A preparation containing antigens that stimulates the immune system to build a defense against a pathogen.

Cytotoxic Chemicals

Toxic substances released by cytotoxic T cells to destroy infected or foreign cells.