What role do B and T cells play in the immune response?

• A. B cells destroy infected cells; T cells produce antibodies
• B. B cells produce antibodies; T cells destroy infected cells
• C. B cells regulate digestion; T cells regulate metabolism
• D. B cells support blood pressure; T cells control temperature

Answer: (B)

B cells and T cells are both vital components of the adaptive immune response, each serving specific functions that contribute to the body's ability to fight infection.

B cells are responsible for producing antibodies, which are specialized proteins that can bind to specific antigens found on the surface of pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. By binding to these antigens, antibodies can neutralize the pathogens directly or mark them for destruction by other parts of the immune system. This process is critical in providing long-term immunity, as some B cells can become memory cells that persist in the body, allowing for a faster and more effective response to future infections by the same pathogen.

T cells, on the other hand, play a key role in targeting and destroying infected cells. There are different types of T cells, but cytotoxic T cells are particularly important for identifying and killing cells that have been infected with viruses or that are otherwise malfunctioning, such as cancerous cells. This targeted approach helps to contain and eliminate infections and plays a significant role in maintaining the overall health of the organism.

The other choices describe functions that are not aligned with the roles of B and T cells within the immune system. For instance, roles related to digestion, metabolism, blood pressure, and temperature control do not pert