Summary
Slower, specific defence involving lymphocytes that remember pathogens.
In depth
Features: specificity, diversity, memory and self-tolerance. Humoral immunity (B cells, antibodies) targets extracellular threats; cell-mediated immunity (T cells) targets infected cells. Takes days for a first response.
Antigen receptors are generated by random recombination. Lymphocytes recognising self are removed. Memory gives faster responses on re-exposure.
Remember: adaptive immunity takes days to develop, which is why innate defences matter early.
Frequently asked questions
What is Adaptive Immunity?
Slower, specific defence involving lymphocytes that remember pathogens.
Which area of biology covers Adaptive Immunity, and how advanced is it?
Adaptive Immunity is one of the 52 topics in Immunology & Disease. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Innate Immunity, Clonal Selection, Immune System.
Can you give an example of Adaptive Immunity?
Chickenpox typically causes lasting immunity after one infection.
What should I learn before Adaptive Immunity?
Adaptive Immunity is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Immunology & Disease that pair well with it include Immune System, Viruses, Innate Immunity.
What topics are related to Adaptive Immunity?
The closest topics to Adaptive Immunity are Innate Immunity, Clonal Selection, Immune System, T Lymphocytes. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Adaptive Immunity?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Adaptive Immunity. To practise the whole of Immunology & Disease, use the Immunology & Disease quiz.
How is Adaptive Immunity different from Innate Immunity?
Adaptive Immunity: Slower, specific defence involving lymphocytes that remember pathogens. Innate Immunity: Rapid, non-specific defences such as skin, mucus, phagocytes and inflammation. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Adaptive Immunity step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Innate Immunity and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Immunology & Disease quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.