Which type of immunity is primarily mediated by T lymphocytes?

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Prepare for the NCCAOM Biomedicine Board Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for success!

The type of immunity primarily mediated by T lymphocytes is cellular immunity. This branch of the immune system is responsible for directly attacking infected cells and regulating other immune responses. T lymphocytes, or T cells, play a crucial role in recognizing antigens presented by infected or abnormal cells and orchestrating a targeted immune response.

In cellular immunity, various types of T cells, including cytotoxic T cells and helper T cells, engage in distinct functions. Cytotoxic T cells directly kill virus-infected cells or cancer cells, while helper T cells assist in activating B cells and enhancing the activity of other immune cells. This strategic approach ensures that the immune response is specifically tailored to eliminate the pathogens or infected cells.

In contrast, humoral immunity, which is not associated with T lymphocytes but rather with B lymphocytes, focuses on the production of antibodies that neutralize pathogens or mark them for destruction by other components of the immune system. Innate immunity refers to the body's first line of defense, involving physical barriers and immune cells that respond quickly but are not antigen-specific. Passive immunity involves the transfer of preformed antibodies from one individual to another, providing temporary protection without the activation of the recipient's immune system.

Overall, the characterization of cellular immunity as primarily T

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