The immune system relies on specialized cells and molecules to defend the human body against infectious threats. Cellular and humoral immunity perform unique and collaborative functions that bolster the response to harmful pathogens. This dynamic relationship strengthens the overall immune response.
Cellular immunity depends on specific cells to mediate the process of targeting and removing atypical cells. T cells begin growing in bone marrow before maturing in the thymus and traveling within the lymphatic system. When harmful substances enter the body, macrophages detect a target to ingest and destroy while deciphering markers within the invader. Macrophages present antigens to T cells having the capacity to memorize threat profiles for future events. Additionally, T cells assist in triggering a response from B cells by sharing blueprints for new antigens.
Humoral immunity relies on antibodies made by B cells that travel within the bloodstream. B cells grow in the spongy tissue within bones called bone marrow and travel to other parts of the lymphatic system upon maturation. When invasive threats move within the body, B cells manufacture antibodies that are unique to the threat profile. The antibodies combat pathogens by attaching themselves and making the target easier to identify for final destruction. B cells gather additional markers from their targets leading to more robust immune responses in the future. Furthermore, B cells activate the complement system which promotes swelling to facilitate the transfer of debris.
Within the immune system, cellular and humoral elements support an adaptive response that is customized for distinct threats to the human body. Cellular immunity relates to the activity of T cells which target atypical particles directly while humoral immunity describes the role of B cells that attack invaders indirectly. These bifurcated processes interact and cooperate to reduce morbidity while enhancing the healthspan. Nutrition, restful sleep and physical activity foster resiliency within the immune system.