The adaptive immune system is a sophisticated part of vertebrate immunity, capable of creating tailored responses to pathogens and forming immunological memory. It includes humoral responses by B cells and cell-mediated responses by T cells. The system's specificity is achieved through somatic recombination, with memory cells providing lasting immunity. Vaccination exploits this memory to prevent diseases.
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B cells produce antibodies that neutralize pathogens in bodily fluids
T Cell Functions
T cells can directly destroy infected cells or regulate other components of the immune system
Lymphocytes, including B cells and T cells, are pivotal in the adaptive immune response
Immune receptors are generated through somatic recombination and allow for the remarkable specificity of the adaptive immune system
Somatic Hypermutation
Somatic hypermutation introduces mutations in antibody genes to enhance their affinity for antigens
V(D)J Recombination
V(D)J recombination randomly assembles gene segments to create unique antigen receptors for each lymphocyte
Memory B cells and T cells provide the foundation for long-lasting immunity
Vaccination leverages the adaptive immune system's capacity for memory to prevent future infections by introducing a harmless version of a pathogen
Immunological memory is fundamental to both natural and vaccine-induced immunity, offering a powerful means of disease prevention
00
In contrast to the innate system, the adaptive system tailors responses to each ______ and underpins the principle of ______.
unique pathogen
vaccination
01
The ______ immune system's memory results in a quicker and stronger response to the same pathogen in ______ exposures.
adaptive
subsequent
02
The adaptive immune system is part of ______ immunity and offers long-term protection against various ______.
vertebrate
diseases
