Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct is to make a true statement.
The secondary immune response is mediated by plasma cells.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of the secondary immune response. The secondary immune response occurs when the immune system encounters a pathogen it has previously been exposed to. It is faster and more robust due to the presence of memory cells.
2. Step 2: Recall the role of plasma cells in the immune system. Plasma cells are derived from B cells and are responsible for producing antibodies during the primary immune response.
3. Step 3: Identify the key players in the secondary immune response. Memory B cells and memory T cells are the primary mediators of the secondary immune response, as they quickly recognize the pathogen and initiate a faster immune reaction.
4. Step 4: Evaluate the statement: 'The secondary immune response is mediated by plasma cells.' Since plasma cells are primarily involved in the primary immune response, this statement is false.
5. Step 5: Correct the false statement: 'The secondary immune response is mediated by memory B cells and memory T cells, which rapidly activate upon re-exposure to the same antigen.'

Key Concepts

Secondary Immune Response

The secondary immune response occurs when the immune system encounters a pathogen for the second time. It is characterized by a faster and more robust reaction compared to the primary immune response, primarily due to the presence of memory cells that were generated during the first exposure.

Plasma Cells

Plasma cells are specialized B cells that produce antibodies in response to an antigen. They play a crucial role in the immune response by secreting large quantities of antibodies that help neutralize pathogens and mark them for destruction by other immune cells.

B Cells and Memory Cells

B cells are a type of white blood cell that are essential for the adaptive immune response. Upon activation by an antigen, some B cells differentiate into memory cells, which persist long-term and enable a quicker and more effective response during subsequent exposures to the same antigen.