Final answer:
Specific immunity involves both T cells and B cells, which respectively handle cell-mediated immunity and antibody production. Macrophages also contribute by phagocytizing pathogens and aiding in inflammation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Specific immunity is the product of a dual system composed of T cells (T lymphocytes) and B cells (B lymphocytes). T cells are crucial in the cell-mediated immune response, where they help neutralize cells infected with viruses and certain bacteria. B cells, on the other hand, are responsible for humoral immunity, producing antibodies that identify and neutralize foreign agents such as bacteria and viruses.
There are three main types of T cells: cytotoxic T cells, which destroy virus-infected and other kinds of compromised cells; helper T cells, which activate both antibody and cell-mediated immune responses; and suppressor T cells, which function to deactivate T and B cells when necessary, thus preventing an overactive immune response.
Macrophages are immune cells capable of phagocytizing pathogens and producing chemicals that promote inflammation, fulfilling a critical role in both innate and adaptive immunity.