Question

Define Humoral immune response.

Hint:

Remember: Humoral = "Humour" (Fluid/Blood) = B-cells = Antibodies.
Cell-mediated = T-cells.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The immune system has two main branches of acquired immunity: cell-mediated and humoral.
Humoral immunity specifically refers to the protective activities occurring in the bodily fluids.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Humoral immune response is also known as antibody-mediated immunity.
When a pathogen enters the body fluids (blood or lymph), B-lymphocytes recognize the antigens.
These B-cells then differentiate into plasma cells, which secrete proteins called antibodies into the blood.
Because these antibodies are found in the "humours" (bodily fluids) of the body, the response is named "Humoral."
It is primarily effective against extracellular bacteria and viruses.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Humoral immune response is the antibody-mediated immunity produced by B-lymphocytes present in the blood plasma.