Question

Why is a deficiency of T cells more dangerous than a deficiency of B cells?

Short answer

A deficiency in T cells is more dangerous because T cells play a central role in both cell-mediated and humoral immunity. They are responsible for coordinating immune responses, destroying infected cells, and helping B cells produce antibodies. Thus, a shortage of T cells has more far-reaching effects on the body's defense mechanisms compared to a deficiency in B cells, which mainly impacts the production of antibodies.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding T cell function

T cells, also known as T lymphocytes, are one type of white blood cell that play a key role in the immune response. There are different types of T cells, each with unique functions - helper T cells aid in immune response coordination, cytotoxic T cells attack infected cells, and memory T cells remain in the body long-term to quickly respond to future infections with the same antigen.

Understanding B cell function

B cells, or B lymphocytes, primarily contribute to the humoral immune response. They produce and secrete antibodies which can bind to and neutralize pathogens. Essentially, B cells can 'flag' pathogens for destruction by other immune cells or directly neutralize them.

Comparing impacts of T cell and B cell deficiencies

A deficiency in T cells would undermine the immune system's ability to mount and coordinate effective responses to pathogens, leading to deficiencies in both cell-mediated and antibody-mediated responses. Without cytotoxic T cells, the body cannot effectively destroy infected cells. Without helper T cells, B cells cannot efficiently produce antibodies. Conversely, a deficiency in B cells would primarily affect the body's ability to produce antibodies to neutralize and help destroy pathogens. While this is also detrimental, the presence of properly functioning T cells could still mediate some degree of immune response.