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Ch. 21 The Immune System: Innate and Adaptive Body Defenses
Chapter 20, Problem 24

Although the adaptive immune system has two arms, it has been said, 'no T cells, no immunity.' Explain.

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1
Understand that the adaptive immune system consists of two main components: the humoral immune response (mediated by B cells) and the cell-mediated immune response (mediated by T cells).
Recognize that T cells play a crucial role in both arms of the adaptive immune system. They are essential for the activation and regulation of B cells and the production of antibodies.
Acknowledge that T helper cells (a subset of T cells) are necessary for the activation of B cells. Without T helper cells, B cells cannot effectively produce antibodies, which are critical for the humoral immune response.
Consider the role of cytotoxic T cells, which are responsible for directly attacking and destroying infected cells. This function is vital for the cell-mediated immune response, which targets intracellular pathogens.
Conclude that without T cells, both the humoral and cell-mediated immune responses would be severely compromised, leading to a lack of effective immunity. Hence, the phrase 'no T cells, no immunity' underscores the indispensable role of T cells in the adaptive immune system.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Adaptive Immune System

The adaptive immune system is a specialized defense mechanism that develops over time, providing a targeted response to specific pathogens. It consists of two main components: B cells, which produce antibodies, and T cells, which help regulate immune responses and directly kill infected cells. This system is crucial for long-term immunity and memory against previously encountered pathogens.
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T Cells

T cells are a type of white blood cell that play a central role in the adaptive immune response. They are divided into several subtypes, including helper T cells, which assist other immune cells, and cytotoxic T cells, which directly attack infected or cancerous cells. The phrase 'no T cells, no immunity' emphasizes their essential role in orchestrating and executing immune responses.
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Immunity

Immunity refers to the body's ability to resist or eliminate pathogens and their harmful effects. It can be innate (immediate and non-specific) or adaptive (specific and developed over time). The effectiveness of the adaptive immune system, particularly through T cells, is vital for establishing long-lasting immunity, which protects against future infections by the same pathogen.
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