Final answer:
Lymphocytes recognize pathogens using markers on the pathogens' cell membranes called antigens. B cells create antibodies while T cells directly attack foreign cells, both triggered by antigen recognition. The process is akin to a lock and key, where antigens bind to specific receptors on lymphocytes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lymphocytes, including B cells and T cells, play crucial roles in the body's immune response by identifying and combating pathogens. They recognize pathogens by specific markers present on the pathogen's cell membrane, which are known as antigens.
Antigens are proteins that are detected by the immune system as foreign to the body, prompting an immune response.
B cells are primarily responsible for producing antibodies, which are proteins that bind specifically to antigens, leading to the pathogen's neutralization or destruction. In contrast, T cells contribute to cellular-level immunity by attacking foreign or diseased cells directly.
Once they bind with their specific antigens, B cells differentiate into plasma cells that secrete antibodies, while T cells undergo activation and expansion to target the pathogen effectively.
The recognition process works similarly to a lock and key mechanism, whereby the antigen fits into the lymphocyte's receptor molecule, prompting an immune reaction and the development of cells ready to fight the specific pathogen.