Introduction to the Adaptive Immune System

Vocabulary flashcards focused on key terms and concepts related to the adaptive immune system.

Adaptive Immune System

A part of the immune system that is specific and capable of memory response, primarily found in vertebrates.

Innate Immune System

The non-specific first line of defense present in all forms of life, providing immediate, but not long-lasting immunity.

B lymphocytes

White blood cells that secrete antibodies and mature in the bone marrow.

T lymphocytes

White blood cells that develop in the thymus; types include CD4+ (Helper) and CD8+ (Cytotoxic) T cells.

MHC class I molecules

Molecules that present intracellular antigens to CD8+ T cells, facilitating the recognition and killing of infected cells.

MHC class II molecules

Molecules that present extracellular antigens to CD4+ T cells, aiding in the activation of helper T cells and the immune response.

Antigen

Any substance that can bind to specific lymphocyte receptors and elicit an immune response.

Cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL)

The main effector cell in the adaptive immune system that recognizes and kills infected cells.

Immunological memory

The ability of the adaptive immune system to remember past infections, allowing for quicker and more robust responses upon re-exposure.

Antibody

A soluble form of B cell receptor (BCR) that binds to antigens to neutralize or eliminate pathogens.

Perforin/Granzyme Killing

A mechanism used by cytotoxic T lymphocytes to induce apoptosis in target cells.

Helper T lymphocytes

CD4+ T cells that assist in the immune response by activating other immune cells.

Memory T cells

Long-lived T cells that remain after an infection, allowing for faster responses upon subsequent exposures.

B cell receptor (BCR)

A membrane-bound immunoglobulin found on B cells that binds to specific antigens.

T cell receptor (TCR)

A membrane-bound receptor on T cells that recognizes antigens presented by MHC molecules.

Cytokines

Signaling proteins released by cells that mediate and regulate immunity, inflammation, and hematopoiesis.