Q. Which one of the following statements best describes the role of B cells and T cells in the human body?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2022 Prelims]
(a) They protect the body from environmental allergens.
(b) They alleviate the body’s pain and inflammation.
(c) They act as immunosuppressants in the body.
(d) They protect the body from the diseases caused by pathogens.
Answer: (d)
Explanation:
Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cells. They play a critical role in keeping us healthy. Without them, we can’t survive.
- T cells protect us from infection. In our daily lives, we’re constantly exposed to pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses and fungi.
- B cells create antibodies. B lymphocytes, also called B cells, create a type of protein called an antibody. These antibodies bind to pathogens or to foreign substances, such as toxins, to neutralize them.