Answer
The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and molecules that work together to defend the body against harmful invaders such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other pathogens. Its primary function is to recognize and eliminate these foreign substances while distinguishing them from the body's own healthy cells and tissues.
The two distinguishing characteristics of adaptive immunity are:
1. **Specificity:** Adaptive immunity is highly specific, meaning it can recognize and target specific antigens (molecules present on the surface of pathogens) that are unique to particular pathogens. This specificity is achieved through the presence of specialized immune cells called T cells and B cells. Each T cell or B cell is programmed to recognize a specific antigen. When an antigen matches the receptor on a T or B cell, it triggers a response directed precisely at that antigen.
2. **Memory:** Adaptive immunity possesses the ability to "remember" past encounters with pathogens. Once the immune system has been exposed to a specific antigen, memory cells are generated. These memory cells persist in the body after the infection has been cleared and can quickly mount a robust immune response if the same pathogen re-invades. This memory response is the basis for long-lasting immunity to certain diseases and is the principle behind vaccination.
These two characteristics of adaptive immunity allow the immune system to respond with precision and effectiveness to a wide range of pathogens, enhancing the body's ability to combat infections and providing long-term protection.
Work Step by Step
The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and molecules that work together to defend the body against harmful invaders such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other pathogens. Its primary function is to recognize and eliminate these foreign substances while distinguishing them from the body's own healthy cells and tissues.
The two distinguishing characteristics of adaptive immunity are:
1. **Specificity:** Adaptive immunity is highly specific, meaning it can recognize and target specific antigens (molecules present on the surface of pathogens) that are unique to particular pathogens. This specificity is achieved through the presence of specialized immune cells called T cells and B cells. Each T cell or B cell is programmed to recognize a specific antigen. When an antigen matches the receptor on a T or B cell, it triggers a response directed precisely at that antigen.
2. **Memory:** Adaptive immunity possesses the ability to "remember" past encounters with pathogens. Once the immune system has been exposed to a specific antigen, memory cells are generated. These memory cells persist in the body after the infection has been cleared and can quickly mount a robust immune response if the same pathogen re-invades. This memory response is the basis for long-lasting immunity to certain diseases and is the principle behind vaccination.
These two characteristics of adaptive immunity allow the immune system to respond with precision and effectiveness to a wide range of pathogens, enhancing the body's ability to combat infections and providing long-term protection.
