How do B cells and T cells function in the adaptive immune response?

B cells and T cells function in the adaptive immune response by recognizing and responding to specific antigens.

B cells are responsible for producing antibodies, which are proteins that bind to specific antigens and mark them for destruction by other immune cells. When a B cell encounters an antigen that matches its specific receptor, it undergoes activation and begins to divide. Some of the resulting daughter cells become plasma cells, which produce large amounts of antibodies that can neutralize or eliminate the antigen. Other daughter cells become memory B cells, which can quickly respond to future encounters with the same antigen.

T cells, on the other hand, do not produce antibodies themselves but instead help to coordinate the immune response. There are several types of T cells, including helper T cells, cytotoxic T cells, and regulatory T cells. Helper T cells recognize antigens presented by other immune cells and release cytokines that stimulate the production and activation of other immune cells. Cytotoxic T cells, also known as killer T cells, directly attack and destroy cells that are infected with a virus or other intracellular pathogen. Regulatory T cells help to prevent the immune system from attacking the body's own cells and tissues.

Overall, B cells and T cells work together to mount a targeted and specific immune response against invading pathogens.