What major advantage is conveyed by having a system of adaptive immunity?
A) It enables a rapid defence against an antigen that has been previously encountered.
B) It enables an animal to counter most pathogens almost instantly the first time they are encountered.
C) It results in effector cells with specificity for a large number of antigens.
D) It allows for the destruction of antibodies.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The major advantage conveyed by having a system of adaptive immunity is that it enables a rapid defense against an antigen that has been previously encountered. This is due to the presence of memory cells, which upon re-exposure to the same antigen, can quickly mount an immune response and eliminate the pathogen. This is the basis for vaccination and the reason why individuals who have previously been exposed to a pathogen are less likely to get infected again. Option B is incorrect as adaptive immunity does not provide instant protection against most pathogens the first time they are encountered, rather it takes time to develop an immune response. Option C is partially correct as adaptive immunity does result in effector cells with specificity for a large number of antigens, but this is not the major advantage conveyed by it. Option D is incorrect as adaptive immunity does not allow for the destruction of antibodies, rather it produces antibodies to neutralize or eliminate antigens.

What Major Advantage Is Conveyed by Having a System of Adaptive