Basis of differentiation | T-cells | B-cells |
Definition | Are a type of lymphocyte that mediates appropriate immune responses against infected or malignant cells in the body by secreting lymphokines or by direct contact | Are a specific type of lymphocyte that transforms into two distinct groups – plasma cells and memory cells – on encountering a specific pathogen |
Origin | Originate in the bone marrow and mature in the thymus | Originate and mature in the bone marrow. |
Also known as | T lymphocytes | B lymphocytes |
Surface antibodies | Lack surface antigens | Surface antigens are present |
Membrane receptor for antigen | TCR (T-cell receptor) | BCR (B-cell receptor) |
Recognition of Antigens | Can only recognize viral antigens on the outside of the infected cells | Can recognize antigens on the surface of the bacteria and viruses |
Types of immunity | Are involved in the cell-mediated immunity (CMI) | Are involved in the humoral or antibody-mediated immunity (AMI) |
Inhibitory effect | A specific type - Suppressor T cells - have an inhibitory effect on the immune system | Do not have any inhibitory effect on the immune system |
Life span | Have longer lifespans | Have short lifespans |
Secretion | Lymphokines | Antibodies |
Types | 3 types
| 2 types
|
Movement to the infected site | Move to the site of infection | Do not move to the site of infection |
Defend against | Pathogens such as viruses, protists, and fungi that enter the cells in the body | Bacteria and viruses in the bloodstream or lymph |