Cells involved in humoral immunity-
**Core Concept**
Humoral immunity refers to the specific defense mechanism that involves the production of antibodies by B cells to neutralize or remove pathogens from the body. This type of immunity is mediated by the activation of B cells, which differentiate into plasma cells and secrete antibodies.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
B cells, also known as B lymphocytes, play a crucial role in humoral immunity. Upon encountering an antigen, B cells recognize the antigen through their surface-bound antibodies and become activated. This activation leads to the proliferation and differentiation of B cells into plasma cells, which then produce large amounts of antibodies to combat the infection. The antibodies produced by plasma cells can neutralize pathogens, mark them for destruction, or activate the complement system to aid in clearance.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Macrophages are involved in phagocytic immunity, not humoral immunity. They engulf and digest foreign particles and microorganisms.
**Option B:** Dendritic cells are antigen-presenting cells that play a role in initiating adaptive immune responses, but they are not directly involved in humoral immunity.
**Option C:** T cells are involved in cell-mediated immunity, which is distinct from humoral immunity. T cells recognize antigens presented by MHC molecules on the surface of antigen-presenting cells.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
B cells are responsible for producing antibodies to combat infections, but they can also produce autoantibodies in autoimmune diseases, leading to tissue damage and disease.
**Correct Answer: C. T cells are involved in cell-mediated immunity, which is distinct from humoral immunity.**