Activation of the humoral immune system by an antigen results in the production of which substance? ...

Correct Answer: 1
Rationale 1: Activation of the humoral immune system results in antibodies.
Rationale 2: Activation of the humoral immune system does not result in macrophages.
Rationale 3: Activation of the humoral immune system does not result in T lymphocytes.
Rationale 4: Activation of the humoral immune system does not result in NK cells.
Global Rationale: The humoral immune response is triggered when an antigen encounters a B lymphocyte, more simply known as a B cell. The activated B cell divides to form millions of identical copies of it-self in a process known as clonal division. Most cells in this clone are called plasma cells, whose primary function is to secrete antibodies specific to the antigen that initiated the challenge. The activation of complement, with subsequent inflammation and enhanced phagocytosis, is a major defense mechanism resulting from the formation of antigenantibody complexes. Peak production of antibodies occurs about 10 days after an initial antigen challenge. Activation of the humoral immune system does not result in macrophages, T lymphocytes, or NK cells.