Question

Name the T helper cell subset involved in antibody production. a. \(\mathrm{T}_{\mathrm{H}} 1\) b. \(\mathrm{T}_{\mathrm{H}}^{2}\) c. \(\mathrm{T}_{\mathrm{H}} 17\) d. CTL

Short answer

The T helper cell subset involved in antibody production is TH2.

Step-by-step solution

Identifying the Correct T Helper Cell Subset

To solve this exercise, recall the function of various T helper cell subsets. The T helper cells are a critical component of the adaptive immune system. They are primarily involved in recognizing and responding to antigens presented by antigen-presenting cells. Each subset is characterized by its function and the cytokines it produces. The subset that is specifically involved in helping B cells to produce antibodies is the T helper 2 (TH2) subset. Their role is to provide help to B cells, which includes cytokine production that promotes antibody class switching, affinity maturation, and the development of plasma and memory B cells. Therefore, the T helper cell subset involved in antibody production is the TH2 subset.

Key concepts

Adaptive Immune System

The adaptive immune system is an intricate defense mechanism that protects the body against various pathogens. Unlike the innate immune system, which responds to threats quickly but non-specifically, the adaptive immune system provides a targeted response to specific pathogens. It accomplishes this through specialized cells and proteins that recognize foreign molecules, known as antigens.

Two main cell types within the adaptive immune system are T cells and B cells. T cells, including T helper (Th) cells, manage immune responses, while B cells are responsible for producing antibodies. Over time, the adaptive immune system 'learns' and remembers pathogens, leading to quicker and more effective responses upon subsequent encounters.

T helper 2 (TH2) cells

Among the various subsets of T helper cells, TH2 cells play a pivotal role in orchestrating the immune response against extracellular pathogens, such as parasites. They function by secreting cytokines that stimulate B cells to produce antibodies, particularly those necessary for neutralizing pathogens and preventing their spread.

TH2 cells are especially associated with promoting the production of IgE antibodies, which are involved in allergic responses. Moreover, they help in the differentiation of B cells into antibody-secreting plasma cells and memory B cells, both crucial for long-term immunity.

Antibody Production

Antibody production, also known as humoral immunity, is a critical task carried out by B cells. When a B cell encounters its specific antigen, it can turn into a plasma cell that secretes antibodies. These antibodies are then released into the bloodstream to neutralize pathogens.

Antibodies work by binding to antigens, which can neutralize toxins, lead to the destruction of pathogens, or make them more visible to other immune cells. The process of changing the antibody type being produced, or class switching, is influenced by cytokines produced by TH2 cells, tailoring the immune response to the type of infection present.