Reference no: EM132486638

You inject a mouse with a protein antigen X. This is the first time the mouse has been exposed to X. In the course of clearing X from their body the mouse will launch an immune response to antigen X. Over the course of the immune response antigen X will encounter naïve, effector and memory lymphocytes (B- and T-cells).  There are distinct differences between the function and role of each type (naïve, effector and memory). 

Differentiate between naïve, effector and memory lymphocytes.  Focus on their response to antigen (time to respond, magnitude of response, quality/type of response) and their overall function in the immune response.

Note: This question is only worth 5 marks! 

• This isn't a molecular question. It's a 'what is the point', 'why do I need so many different things' type of question. 
• Think big picture (not lots of molecules) and focus on the underlined words above. 
• It is possible to answer the question in a way that is accurate for both T- and B-cells at the same time (i.e., one answer covers both) but you could also describe both independently. Do whichever you feel more comfortable with.
• The mouse, and antigen X, was just an example. You don't have to mention them in your answer.

This question is worth 5 marks (therefore there should be roughly 5 parts to the answer)