Question

Determine the first phase of the antibody-mediated immune response.

A. Memory cells react rapidly upon a second encounter with the antigen.
B. Antibody levels in the blood rise dramatically.
C. B cells should now be present in the body's fluids.
D. B cell clones recognize its specific antigen.

Answer 1

The first phase of the antibody-mediated immune response is the primary response, during which B cell clones expand and differentiate into plasma cells.

Step-by-step explanation:

The first phase of the antibody-mediated immune response is the primary response, during which B cell clones expand and differentiate into plasma cells. This process takes several days, resulting in a low level of antibody production, but it is sufficient for immune protection. The second time a person encounters the same antigen, there is a more rapid and stronger secondary response, with a higher amount of antibody produced. The memory cells differentiate into antibody-secreting plasma cells that output a greater amount of antibody for a longer period of time.