Chapter 37, Problem 17A

Summary Introduction

Introduction: 

Immunity is the resistance of the body against the pathogenic agents. The body can fight against foreign bodies such as bacteria, viruses, toxic substances, etc. It is of two types, innate immunity, also known as non-specific immunity, and acquired immunity. Non-specific immunity includes all the defense with which an organism is born while the immunity that is acquired after the birth is called acquired immunity. 

Answer to Problem 17A

Correct answer: 

Option (C) Specific.

Explanation of Solution

Explanation/justification for the correct answer:

Option (C) Specific. The specific immune response involves a phagocyte, antigen, T cell, b cell, cytotoxic T cells. The given diagram depicts an antibody-mediated response where macrophage is bound to the receptor on the helper T cell. It is presenting the antigen to helper T cells that help the T cell to divide. The T cells then present this processed antigen to B cell. B cells produce antibodies, and some become memory B cells.

The explanation for the incorrect answer: 

Option (A) genetic. The genetic immune response doesn’t possess macrophage or helper t cells, as shown in the figure. Hence, it is an incorrect answer.

Option (B) nonspecific. The non-specific immune response is not directed towards a specific pathogen. They protect from any pathogens that try to invade into the body. It doesn’t include B and T cells. Hence, it is an incorrect answer.

Option (D) hormonal. No hormonal response is depicted in the given diagram. Hence, it is an incorrect option.