What process characterizes acquired immunity?

What process characterizes acquired immunity?

• A. Natural resistance to infections
• B. Creation of antibodies in response to pathogens
• C. Transfer of antibodies from mother to child
• D. Development of long-term immunity through vaccination

Answer: (B)

Acquired immunity is characterized by the creation of antibodies in response to exposure to specific pathogens. This process occurs when the immune system recognizes pathogens, such as viruses or bacteria, and mounts a targeted response. When these pathogens enter the body, the immune system identifies them as foreign invaders and activates B cells, which are responsible for producing antibodies. These antibodies bind to the pathogens, marking them for destruction by other immune cells. This type of immunity differs from innate immunity, which is present from birth and provides immediate but non-specific defense against infections. Acquired immunity can be developed naturally, through infection, or artificially, through vaccination, where the body is exposed to a harmless part of the pathogen, prompting the immune response and the production of antibodies without causing the disease itself. The other options address different aspects of immunity but do not fully capture the essence of acquired immunity as the creation of antibodies in response to a specific pathogen is the fundamental process that defines it.

Acquired immunity is characterized by the creation of antibodies in response to exposure to specific pathogens. This process occurs when the immune system recognizes pathogens, such as viruses or bacteria, and mounts a targeted response. When these pathogens enter the body, the immune system identifies them as foreign invaders and activates B cells, which are responsible for producing antibodies. These antibodies bind to the pathogens, marking them for destruction by other immune cells.

This type of immunity differs from innate immunity, which is present from birth and provides immediate but non-specific defense against infections. Acquired immunity can be developed naturally, through infection, or artificially, through vaccination, where the body is exposed to a harmless part of the pathogen, prompting the immune response and the production of antibodies without causing the disease itself.

The other options address different aspects of immunity but do not fully capture the essence of acquired immunity as the creation of antibodies in response to a specific pathogen is the fundamental process that defines it.