Step 1: Understanding the Question:
We need to analyze four statements about the mammalian immune system to find the correct combination.
Step 2: Key Concept and Approach:
We will evaluate each statement's biological accuracy:
- Humoral immunity involves antibodies, while apoptosis of infected cells is mediated by cell-mediated cytotoxicity.
- Natural killer (NK) cells are part of cellular innate immunity, acting as the second line of defense.
- Secondary lymphoid organs like the appendix are sites where mature lymphocytes interact with antigens and differentiate.
- Viruses targeting specific cell types containing matching receptors exhibit tissue tropism.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
• Statement A: Humoral immunity is mediated by macromolecules (antibodies) secreted by B-cells, primarily neutralizing extracellular pathogens.
Apoptosis induction in target cells is a feature of cell-mediated immunity (via Cytotoxic T-lymphocytes).
Thus, Statement A is incorrect.
• Statement B: The first line of defense consists of physical and chemical barriers (e.g., skin, stomach acid).
NK cells represent cellular barriers, which form the second line of defense.
Thus, Statement B is incorrect.
• Statement C: The appendix is a secondary lymphoid organ.
In secondary lymphoid organs, mature (but naive) lymphocytes are exposed to foreign antigens, undergo clonal selection, and transform into functional effector cells.
Thus, Statement C is correct.
• Statement D: HIV specifically infects CD4+ T-helper cells and macrophages.
This preference for specific host tissues or cells is called tissue tropism.
Thus, Statement D is correct.
• Therefore, statements C and D are correct.
Step 4: Final Answer:
The correct statements are C and D, matching Option (A).