How does antigen specificity differ between T cells and B cells?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the differences in antigen specificity between T cells and B cells, which are crucial components of the immune system. It is exploring how their capabilities to recognize and respond to antigens differ.
Answer
B cells recognize free antigens, T cells recognize processed peptides on MHC.
The final answer is that B cells recognize free, unprocessed antigens directly through their B cell receptors, whereas T cells recognize processed antigen peptides presented by MHC molecules on other cells.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is that B cells recognize free, unprocessed antigens directly through their B cell receptors, whereas T cells recognize processed antigen peptides presented by MHC molecules on other cells.
More Information
B cells mature in the bone marrow and are responsible for antibody-mediated immunity, while T cells mature in the thymus and are crucial for cell-mediated immunity. The specificity and mechanism of antigen recognition are what fundamentally distinguish their roles.
Tips
A common mistake in understanding the immune system is confusing the roles of T cells and B cells, particularly in how they recognize antigens. It's critical to remember that B cells bind directly to antigens, but T cells only recognize processed peptide fragments presented on MHC molecules.
Sources
- Introduction to T and B lymphocytes - Autoimmunity - NCBI Bookshelf - ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- B cell and T cell structure and function | Immunology - iRepertoire - irepertoire.com
- T and B Lymphocytes | Biology for Majors II - courses.lumenlearning.com
