The Adaptive Immune Response

This set of flashcards covers key terms and definitions related to the adaptive immune response, providing a study aid for understanding immunology concepts.

Immunity

The body's ability to resist or defend against infection and disease.

Innate Immunity

The initial immune response that one is born with; it includes physical barriers and immune cells.

Adaptive Immunity

The immune response that develops over time, specifically targeting pathogens and involving lymphocyte activation.

T lymphocytes (T cells)

A type of lymphocyte that plays a central role in cell-mediated immunity.

B lymphocytes (B cells)

A type of lymphocyte responsible for producing antibodies in the humoral immune response.

Antigen

A substance that the immune system recognizes as foreign, provoking an immune response.

Epitopes

Specific regions on antigens that are recognized by antibodies or T cell receptors.

Cytotoxic T cell (Tc)

T cells that kill infected or cancerous cells.

Helper T cell (Th)

T cells that help regulate B cells and cytotoxic T cells by secreting cytokines.

Memory T cells

Long-lived T cells that remain in the body after an infection, allowing for a faster response to future encounters with the same antigen.

Clonal selection

The process by which specific lymphocytes are selected for proliferation upon encountering their specific antigen.

Immunoglobulin (Ig)

Proteins produced by B cells that function as antibodies, with five main classes: IgM, IgG, IgA, IgE, and IgD.

Passive immunity

Immunity acquired through the transfer of antibodies, such as from mother to child.

Active immunity

Immunity that develops as a result of exposure to an antigen, leading to the production of antibodies.

Regulatory T cells

T cells that help prevent autoimmune responses by regulating other immune cells.

Complement system

A part of the immune system that enhances the ability of antibodies and phagocytic cells to clear pathogens.