Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

21. The Immune System

Antigens

Anatomy & Physiology

21. The Immune System

Antigens

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Problem 17d

Textbook Question

Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.
Cancer cells are destroyed by NK cells, T_Ccells, and macrophages.

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Understand the role of NK cells (Natural Killer cells), TC cells (Cytotoxic T cells), and macrophages in the immune system. NK cells are part of the innate immune system and can destroy cancer cells without prior activation. TC cells are part of the adaptive immune system and target cancer cells specifically after recognizing antigens. Macrophages can engulf and destroy cancer cells through phagocytosis and also release cytokines to recruit other immune cells.

Step 2: Evaluate the statement provided. The statement claims that cancer cells are destroyed by NK cells, TC cells, and macrophages. This is generally true, as all three types of cells play roles in targeting and eliminating cancer cells.

Step 3: Consider any exceptions or nuances. While these immune cells are capable of destroying cancer cells, some cancer cells can evade immune detection through mechanisms like downregulating antigen presentation or secreting immunosuppressive factors.

Step 4: If the statement is true, confirm it. If false, correct it. In this case, the statement is true, but it could be expanded for clarity by mentioning that cancer cells may evade immune destruction in certain circumstances.

Step 5: Finalize the understanding by noting that the immune system's ability to destroy cancer cells is a complex process involving multiple cell types and signaling pathways, and cancer cells can sometimes develop resistance to immune attacks.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Natural Killer (NK) Cells

Natural Killer (NK) cells are a type of lymphocyte in the immune system that play a crucial role in the body's defense against tumors and virally infected cells. They can recognize and kill these cells without prior sensitization, making them essential for early immune responses. NK cells release cytotoxic granules that induce apoptosis in target cells, contributing to the elimination of cancerous cells.

T Cells

T cells are a subset of lymphocytes that are vital for the adaptive immune response. They are divided into various types, including cytotoxic T cells (T<sub>C</sub> cells), which specifically target and destroy infected or cancerous cells. T cells require activation through antigen presentation and play a significant role in recognizing and responding to cancer cells, enhancing the immune response against tumors.

Macrophages

Macrophages are large phagocytic cells that are part of the innate immune system. They play a dual role in immune defense by engulfing pathogens and dead cells, as well as presenting antigens to T cells to initiate an adaptive immune response. In the context of cancer, macrophages can either promote tumor growth or help eliminate cancer cells, depending on their activation state and the tumor microenvironment.

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Related Practice

Textbook Question

Lymphocytes that develop immunocompetence in the bone marrow are:

a. T lymphocytes

b. B lymphocytes

c. NK cells

d. B and T lymphocytes

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Textbook Question

Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct is to make a true statement.

In the primary immune response, the lag phase lasts about 5 days, during which time B cells proliferate and differentiate.

Epitopes are:

__________ are substances that can trigger the adaptive defenses and provoke an immune response.

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Textbook Question

Give a function for each of the following:

(a) Cytotoxic T cells

(b) Helper T cells

(d) Plasma cells

(e) NK cells

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Textbook Question

Define immunocompetence and self-tolerance. How is self-tolerance achieved?

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Textbook Question

Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.

Dendritic cells may activate both T_Hand T_Ccells.

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Multiple Choice

Many phagocytic immune cells such as macrophages and dendritic cells commonly engulf foreign or dangerous materials in the body. If these cells engulf antigens, the cells will present the antigens on their surface. Which immune cells will respond to these “presented” antigens and trigger an immune response if necessary?