Humoral immunity

Definition

Humoral immunity is a component of the adaptive immune system that involves the production of antibodies by B cells. These antibodies circulate in the blood and lymphatic system to neutralize pathogens.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. B cells play a central role in humoral immunity by differentiating into plasma cells that produce antibodies.
2. Antibodies specifically bind to antigens, marking them for destruction or neutralization.
3. The primary response to an antigen is slower because it requires activation and proliferation of B cells, while the secondary response is faster and more robust due to memory B cells.
4. Humoral immunity targets extracellular pathogens and toxins circulating in body fluids.
5. Vaccination often works by stimulating humoral immunity, leading to the production of memory B cells.

Review Questions

• What type of cell is primarily responsible for antibody production in humoral immunity?
• How do antibodies contribute to pathogen neutralization?
• What is the difference between the primary and secondary immune responses in humoral immunity?

Related terms

B Cells:

A type of white blood cell that differentiates into plasma cells to produce antibodies.

Antibodies:

Proteins produced by plasma cells that specifically bind to antigens and help neutralize or destroy pathogens.

Memory B Cells:

Long-lived B cells that provide a rapid and robust response upon re-exposure to an antigen.