Final answer:
When the body detects a pathogen, the humoral immune response involves B cells that differentiate into plasma and memory B cells, which secrete antibodies. In the cell-mediated immune response, various T cells target and destroy infected or dysfunctional cells. Both responses are vital for protecting the body against pathogens.
Step-by-step explanation:
Humoral and Cell-Mediated Immune Responses
When your body recognizes an invader, such as a pathogen, the humoral immune response is triggered. This response primarily involves B cells that are specialized for antibody production. Once an antigen binds to the B cell, it initiates a signal transduction cascade leading to cell division. The progeny cells differentiate into two main types: plasma cells and memory B cells. Plasma cells secrete antibodies specific to that antigen, which circulate in the blood and lymph, targeting the antigen for destruction. Memory B cells remain in the body to provide a rapid response if the antigen is encountered again in the future.
In contrast, cell-mediated immune response largely involves T cells. There are several types of T cells, including helper T cells, cytotoxic T cells, and regulatory T cells. While B cells are responsible for the humoral response, cytotoxic T cells conduct a similar 'search and destroy' mission against infected or dysfunctional cells by direct contact, leading to the destruction of those cells.
Understandably, the humoral response is crucial for dealing with pathogens in the body fluids, with antibodies playing a central role. Cell-mediated immunity, on the other hand, targets the cells infected with viruses or those that have become cancerous, ensuring their elimination.