Primary vs Secondary Response
Feature | Primary Immune Response | Secondary Immune Response |
|---|---|---|
Time of response | Slower (appears after 4–7 days) | Faster (appears within 1–3 days) |
Antibody concentration | Lower peak antibody levels | Much higher peak antibody levels |
Type of antibodies produced | Mainly IgM at first, followed by IgG | Mainly IgG, also IgA or IgE depending on antigen |
Affinity of antibodies | Lower affinity (less specific binding) | Higher affinity due to affinity maturation |
Duration of response | Short-lived | Long-lasting |
Memory cells | Naïve B cells are activated; memory cells formed | Memory B cells are quickly reactivated |