Today, through state-of-the-art biotechnology, scientists can now identify two basic types of lymphocytes called B cells and T cells. The B cells produce antibodies that neutralize certain components of invaders (such as in chicken pox or mumps). The T cells act more directly to kill foreign invaders. Some are cytotoxic cells, which punch holes in the antigen. Others are T-helper cells, which enhance the role of other immune system cells and can activate the macrophages, which eat every foreign invader in their path, almost like a Pac Man gobbling up debris. Secretions from the T-helper cells also activate natural killer (NK) cells, which play an important but not yet fully understood role in fighting viral infections. Finally, there are T-suppressor cells which turn off the immune system response once the invader is completely destroyed.
The immune system, made up of many subsets of B and T cells, is a very carefully regulated system. Besides the interaction between lymphocytes, macrophages, and antibodies, the immune system also recognizes self or nonself. In other words, it can tell the difference between your own liver and a transplanted one. It will know that the new liver is not the one that should be there, genetically, and it will reject it unless the immune system is toned down through such immunosuppressant drugs as cyclosporine.

More About this Book
Multiple Sclerosis
Continue Learning about Immune System
Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.