Final answer:
Self antigens do not normally elicit an immune response in our bodies; the immune system differentiates self from nonself to prevent such reactions. When this differentiation fails, autoimmune diseases may result, highlighting the importance of proper antigen recognition.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer to the question is B. False. In the human body, self antigens normally do not generate an immune response because the adaptive immune system is able to distinguish between self-antigens and foreign antigens. This self-recognition is a critical function that prevents the immune system from attacking the body's own cells. However, when this system fails or malfunctions, it can lead to autoimmune diseases, where the body mistakenly attacks its own tissues. In contrast, the immune system is designed to mount a response to foreign antigens, which are usually associated with pathogens, cancer cells, or transplanted organs.
Antigen recognition is centered on the body's ability to detect nonself entities, prompting a response that may include the production of antibodies by B cells or the activation of T cells in the cell-mediated immune response. It's important to note that these responses are not initiated against self antigens under normal conditions. Additionally, issues with antigen recognition, such as the absence of MHC I molecules, can lead to the misidentification of self as non-self, further contributing to autoimmune responses.