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What is the term for a state of non-reactivity that occurs when a lymphocyte receives a stimulus through its T-cell receptor (TCR) or B-cell receptor (BCR) in the absence of the additional appropriate signals provided by antigen-presenting cells or T cells?

a) Allergy
b) Apoptosis
c) Anergy
d) Autoimmunity
e) Hypersensitivity

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Option (c), The state of non-reactivity in a lymphocyte that has received a stimulus through its receptor without the required additional signals is called anergy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The term for a state of non-reactivity that occurs when a lymphocyte receives a stimulus through its T-cell receptor (TCR) or B-cell receptor (BCR) in the absence of the additional appropriate signals provided by antigen-presenting cells or T cells is known as anergy.

Anergy is a peripheral tolerance mechanism that prevents self-reactive T cells from being activated by self-antigens due to the lack of co-stimulation. This state of anergy works alongside other immune tolerance mechanisms, such as clonal deletion and the regulatory action of T cells, to prevent autoimmune diseases.

Clonal deletion ensures the removal of self-reactive B cells through apoptosis, while clonal expansion allows the growth of a selected clone of lymphocytes with specific receptors. Anergic T or B cells are effectively inactivated and cannot contribute to an immune response. Anergy thus plays a crucial role in maintaining self-tolerance and preventing the immune system from attacking the body's own tissues.

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