Immunology & Host-Microbe Interactions Flashcards

Which immune cell is primarily responsible for producing antibodies?

Answer: B cells

B lymphocytes, also known as B cells, are responsible for producing antibodies to neutralize pathogens.

Which class of immunoglobulin is the first to be produced in response to an infection?

Answer: IgM

IgM is the first antibody produced in an immune response and is important for early defense against infections.

What is the function of the complement system in immunity?

Answer: Enhances pathogen clearance

The complement system enhances the ability of antibodies and immune cells to clear pathogens by promoting inflammation and cell lysis.

Which type of immunity results from vaccination?

Answer: Active immunity

Active immunity develops after exposure to an antigen through infection or vaccination, leading to long-term protection.

Which microorganism is capable of evading the immune system by antigenic variation?

Answer: Influenza virus

Pathogens such as influenza viruses undergo antigenic variation to escape immune recognition and establish infections.

What is the role of macrophages in host defense?

Answer: Engulf and present antigens

Macrophages act as antigen-presenting cells, engulfing pathogens and presenting their antigens to T cells to activate the immune response.