What is the difference between T cells and B cells?
T cells and B cells are both types of lymphocytes, crucial components of the adaptive immune system. However, they differ significantly in their mechanisms of action and roles in fighting infection.
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Primary Function: B cells produce antibodies, proteins that bind to specific pathogens, marking them for destruction. T cells, on the other hand, directly attack infected cells or regulate the immune response. One example is that B cells make antibodies to fight pathogens, while T cells protect by destroying harmful pathogens and sending signals to control the immune system's response. [Source: Your lymphocytes include T cells and B cells. Both types are part of your body's defense. B cells make proteins called antibodies to fight pathogens. T cells protect you by destroying harmful pathogens and by sending signals that help control your immune system's response to threats. ]
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Mechanism of Action: B cells mediate humoral immunity, while T cells mediate cell-mediated immunity. B cells achieve this by secreting antibodies that neutralize pathogens in body fluids. T cells directly kill infected cells or regulate the activity of other immune cells. [Source: Thus, humoral immunity depends on the B Cells while cell immunity depends on the T Cells. ]
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Types: There are various subtypes of T cells, including helper T cells (which coordinate the immune response), cytotoxic T cells (which directly kill infected cells), and regulatory T cells (which suppress the immune response). B cells primarily differentiate into plasma cells (which produce antibodies) and memory B cells (which provide long-term immunity).
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Target: B cells primarily target extracellular pathogens (those outside cells), such as bacteria and viruses in the bloodstream or tissues. T cells mainly target intracellular pathogens (those inside cells), such as viruses hiding within cells, or cancerous cells. [Source: While B-cells produce antibodies to fight infection, T-cells protect people from getting infected by destroying cancerous and infected cells. ]
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Antibody Production: B cells are the sole producers of antibodies. These antibodies bind to antigens (foreign substances) on the surface of pathogens, leading to their neutralization or destruction. T cells do not produce antibodies but have receptors that recognize specific antigens. [Source: B cells produce antibody molecules that can latch on and destroy invading viruses or bacteria. T cells are direct fighters of foreign invaders and also produced… ]
In essence, B cells are like the "antibody factories" of the immune system, while T cells are the "soldiers" and "commanders", directly engaging and coordinating the immune response. Both cell types are essential for a comprehensive and effective immune response. Both B and T cells are involved in acquired immunity and generate memory cells, providing long-term protection against future infections. [Source: B cells and T cells are involved in acquired immunity which is the second line of defense. and ...T-lymphocytes as well as B-lymphocytes that will remember how to fight that virus in the future.]
