Question

(a) Differentiate between humoral immune response and cell-mediated immune response.
(b) Draw a schematic diagram of an antibody molecule and label any four parts.

Hint:

(a) Humoral immunity is antibody-based and targets pathogens in bodily fluids, while cell-mediated immunity involves T cells attacking infected or cancerous cells directly.
(b) The antibody’s variable region binds to antigens, and its constant region helps in immune cell recognition and activation.

Answer 1

(a) - Humoral immune response: This response involves the production of antibodies by B cells to neutralize pathogens and prevent infections. It is primarily mediated by the action of antibodies in bodily fluids.
- Cell-mediated immune response: This response is carried out by T cells, particularly cytotoxic T cells, which target and destroy infected cells or cancerous cells. It does not involve antibodies.
(b) 

- An antibody molecule has a “Y” shaped structure with two heavy chains and two light chains.
- Variable region: Located at the tips of the Y, it binds to the antigen.
- Constant region: The stem of the Y, which determines the class of antibody (IgG, IgM, etc.).
- Hinge region: Located between the arms of the Y, allows flexibility.
- Disulfide bonds: Hold the heavy and light chains together.