Lymphocytes that are specific for certain antigens proliferate by a process known as

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The process described in the question is known as clonal selection, where lymphocytes with specific receptors for antigens are selected for proliferation and activation to mount an immune response. Choice A (effector selection) is not correct, as effector cells are the matured, fully activated form of the selected lymphocytes. Choice B (clonal activation) is incorrect, as this term could refer to any kind of activation of a group of identical cells, while clonal selection refers specifically to the activation of lymphocytes with a particular antigen receptor. Choice C (recognition) is also not quite right, as this term refers to the ability of lymphocytes to recognize specific antigens, but not specifically to the process of proliferation and activation. Choice D (monoclonal formation) is not the best choice because it is too specific and it does not describe the selection process.

Lymphocytes That Are Specific for Certain Antigens Proliferate by a Process