Adaptive Immune Response

B and T cells, parts of the adaptive immune response, contain receptors that can identify antigens derived from pathogens.

The humoral immune response defends against pathogens that are free in the blood by using antibodies against pathogen-specific antigens.

Cell-mediated immunity involves cytotoxic T cells recognizing infected cells and bringing about their destruction.

The lymphatic system houses large populations of immune cells which are released upon detection of a pathogen.

Immunological memory allows the adaptive immune system to very rapidly clear infections that it has encountered before.

Immune tolerance of self and harmless antigens occurs by deleting B and T cells that recognize those antigens, often near mucosal surfaces.