Immunity develops primarily through the action of the acquired immune system, which creates specific defenses after being exposed to an invader.
The Role of Acquired Immunity
The body doesn't rely solely on innate defenses; it also develops a specific response when encountering pathogens. This involves:
- Identifying the Invader: The body recognizes foreign substances (antigens) present on the invader.
- Activating Immune Cells: The innate immune system helps activate the acquired immune system, which utilizes B lymphocytes.
The Action of B Lymphocytes
B lymphocytes are crucial for developing acquired immunity:
- Antibody Production: When exposed to an invader, B lymphocytes produce special proteins called antibodies.
- Specificity: These antibodies are highly specific, meaning each antibody can target a specific invader's antigen.
- Long-Term Protection: These antibodies can provide long-term protection against the same invader in the future.
Here's a breakdown in a table format:
| Immune System Component | Function | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Innate Immune System | Initial defense; activates acquired immunity | Responds quickly to a variety of pathogens. |
| Acquired Immune System | Develops specific immunity | B lymphocytes create antibodies after exposure to a specific invader for defense. |
| B Lymphocytes | Antibody production | Cells that produce proteins (antibodies) specific to an identified invader. |
| Antibodies | Protection | Special proteins developed to protect the body from a specific invader. |
How Antibodies Work:
- They bind to antigens on the surface of the invader.
- This can neutralize the invader, mark it for destruction by other immune cells, or prevent it from infecting cells.
This process of antibody development by B lymphocytes after exposure to an invader is key to achieving immunity.
