Differentiate between the roles of B-lymphocytes and T-lymphocytes in generating immune responses.
Role of B-lymphocytes and T-lymphocytes in the immune response: B-cells (B-lymphocytes) and T-cells (T lymphocytes) comprising the immune system are produced in the bone marrow. T-cells differentiate in the thymus. B-lymphocytes produce antibodies in response to foreign substances (antigens) such as pathogens and pollen. Antibodies are immunoglobulins. They are specific for each antigen. There is more than one antibody for an antigen. Antibodies bind antigens but do not destroy them. This is attacked through other mechanisms. Allergens which are weak antigens cause allergy. T-cells respond to pathogens by producing three types of cells: killer T-cells, helper T-cell and suppressor T-cells. T lymphocytes either help B-lymphocytes to produce antibodies or kill the pathogen directly (killer T-cells). Both B- and T-cells produce memory cells when stimulated. These have long lives and form the basis of acquired immunity.
