The cells of the immune system are a complex network of diverse cells that work together to protect the body from infection, disease, and foreign substances. These cells can be divided into two main categories: B cells and T cells.
B cells are responsible for the production of antibodies, which are proteins that recognize and bind to foreign substances, such as bacteria and viruses. B cells recognize the foreign substance and activate the production of antibodies, which then attach to the foreign substance and mark it for destruction by other cells of the immune system.
T cells, on the other hand, are responsible for recognizing and destroying infected cells. They identify foreign substances within cells and initiate a process known as the cell-mediated immune response. This response involves the activation of T cells, which then produce molecules that signal other cells of the immune system to attack and destroy the infected cells.
In addition to B cells and T cells, the immune system also includes natural killer (NK) cells, which are a type of white blood cell. NK cells are responsible for the recognition and destruction of infected cells and virally-infected cells. They can also produce cytokines, which are molecules that stimulate the activity of other immune cells.
The cells of the immune system are a complex and diverse network of cells that work together to protect the body from infection, disease, and foreign substances. By recognizing and attacking foreign substances, these cells help keep the body healthy and functioning properly.