Humoral immune response
Humoral Immune Response
The Humoral Immune Response (pronunciation: hyoo-mor-uhl im-yoon ri-spons) is a significant aspect of the adaptive immune system that uses B cells to identify and neutralize pathogens in body fluids. The term "humoral" originates from the Latin word "humor," which means fluid.
Etymology
The term "Humoral" is derived from the Latin word "humor," which translates to "fluid." This term was used because the humoral immune response occurs in the body's fluids or "humors," specifically the blood and lymph.
Function
The primary function of the humoral immune response is to prevent infection and disease by producing antibodies to neutralize pathogens. These antibodies are produced by B cells, which are a type of white blood cell. When a pathogen enters the body, the B cells recognize the pathogen's antigens and produce antibodies that can bind to these antigens and neutralize the pathogen.
Related Terms
- Adaptive Immune System: The adaptive immune system is a subsystem of the overall immune system that is composed of specialized, systemic cells and processes that eliminate pathogens or prevent their growth.
- B Cells: B cells, also known as B lymphocytes, are a type of white blood cell that plays a significant role in the humoral immune response.
- Antibodies: Antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins, are large, Y-shaped proteins produced mainly by plasma cells that are used by the immune system to neutralize pathogens such as pathogenic bacteria and viruses.
- Antigens: Antigens are molecules capable of inducing an immune response. They are recognized by the immune system and can be neutralized by antibodies.
- White Blood Cells: White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, are the cells of the immune system that are involved in protecting the body against both infectious disease and foreign invaders.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Humoral immune response
- Wikipedia's article - Humoral immune response
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