Humoral immune system

The humoral immune system (also called humoral immunity or antibody-mediated immunity) is a major part of the host defense network and refers to the aspect of immunity mediated by soluble molecules—including secreted antibodies (immunoglobulins), complement proteins, and certain antimicrobial peptides—present in extracellular fluids such as blood and lymph. The main effector cells are B lymphocytes, which, after activation, differentiate into plasma cells that secrete antibodies targeting specific antigens. The system is essential for defending against extracellular pathogens, providing immunological memory, and collaborating with the innate and cellular branches of the immune system. It is implicated in infection control, autoimmunity, and the pathogenesis (and therapy) of various diseases but is not itself a single druggable target.

Other names

Humoral immunityantibody-mediated immunityhost humoral armantibody-mediated immune system