How Do White Blood Cells (WBCs) Recognize Pathogens?
White blood cells known as lymphocytes, initiate a different type of attack by producing antibodies. Several types of white blood cells exist, each with a unique role in protecting the body against bacterial, viral, fungal and parasitic infections.
How Do White Blood Cells (WBCs) Recognize Pathogens?
Upon identifying an infection, these WBC cells travel to the affected area to remove the invading pathogens and prevent illness. These cells recognize antigens, which are proteins on the surface of the pathogens that differ from the body’s cell markers.
When lymphocytes detect these foreign antigens, they generate antibodies against them. This process may take a few days, during which you might feel unwell. Antibodies attach to antigens, making it easier for other parts of the immune system to identify, destroy and eliminate the infectious agents.
Memory cells retain information about antigens from the past infection, enabling a quicker immune response upon re-exposure. As a result, white blood cells react faster, producing antibodies sooner and potentially preventing illness. Moreover, lymphocytes can create anti-toxins to neutralize toxins released by certain pathogens. Both antibodies and anti-toxins are highly specific.
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