Adaptive Immunity

The adaptive immune system is composed of specialized cells and processes that provide a tailored response to specific pathogens, in contrast to the non-specific innate immune system. Adaptive immunity involves the activation and proliferation of B cells and T cells, which can generate memory cells to mount a stronger and faster response upon subsequent exposure to the same pathogen. Key functions of the adaptive immune system include the recognition of specific antigens, the generation of responses tailored to eliminate those pathogens, and the development of immunological memory to provide long-lasting protection. Adaptive immunity is triggered when pathogens evade the innate immune system, leading to the activation of antigen-presenting cells that stimulate the proliferation and differentiation of B and T cells to clear the infection.