Chap 14, Lymphatic and Immune Systems, Vocabulary Flashcards
adaptive or acquired immunity
The ability to recognize and remember specific antigens and mount an attack on them. Humoral (B cells) and cell-mediated immunity (T cells) are examples.
adenoids
Mass of lymphatic tissue in the nasopharynx.
antibody
Protein produced by B cells to destroy antigens.
antigen
Substance that the body recognizes as foreign; evokes an immune response. Most antigens are proteins or protein fragments found on the surface of bacteria, viruses, or organ transplant tissue cells.
axillary nodes
Lymph nodes in the armpit (underarm).
B cell (B lymphocyte)
Lymphocyte that matures into a plasma cell to secrete antibodies.
cell-mediated immunity
T cells (cytotoxic, helper and suppressor) that respond to antigens and destroy them; a type of adaptive immunity.
cervical nodes
Lymph nodes in the neck region.
complement system
Proteins in the blood that help antibodies kill their target.
cytokines
Proteins secreted by cytotoxic T cells to aid in antigen destruction. Examples are interferons and interleukins.
cytotoxic T cell
Lymphocyte that directly kills antigens; call CD8-positive T cell.
dendritic cell
Antigen-presenting cell. Shows T and B cells what to attack.
helper T cell
Lymphocyte that aids B cells and stimulates T cells. Also called CD4-positive T cell.
humoral immunity
B cells produce antibodies after exposure to specific antigens; type of adaptive immunity.
immunity
Body’s ability to resist foreign organisms and toxins that damage tissues and organs. This includes natural immunity and adaptive immunity.
immunoglobulins
Antibodies such as IgM, IgA, IgG, IgE, IgD; secreted by plasma cells (mature B cells) in response to the presence of an antigen.
immunotherapy
Use of immune cells, antibodies, or vaccines to treat or prevent disease.