Components of the adaptive immune system

"Components of the adaptive immune system" refers collectively to a broad group of cellular and molecular entities that mediate the adaptive (acquired) immune response. The primary cellular components are **B lymphocytes (B cells)** and **T lymphocytes (T cells)**, with B cells responsible for antibody/humoral responses and T cells for cell-mediated immunity (including helper, cytotoxic, and regulatory subsets)[6][3][8]. These cells utilize highly specific antigen receptors, which are generated through somatic gene rearrangement, affording immense diversity and specificity against pathogens[4][6]. Additional molecular components include **immunoglobulins (antibodies)**, which neutralize pathogens and toxins, and a variety of surface receptors (e.g., T cell receptor, B cell receptor)[1][2][5]. The adaptive immune system also entails mechanisms like immunological memory, enabling a faster and stronger response to previously encountered antigens[4][6]. Because "components of the adaptive immune system" is a category and not a specific molecule, receptor, or discrete target, it is not considered a therapeutic target itself, and is not appropriate for use as an individual structured therapeutic target.

Other names

Adaptive immune system componentsElements of acquired immunity