What are the differences between T-cells and antibodies?

Basis of differentiation 

T-Cells 

Antibodies 

Definition

Are a type of white blood cell that plays a key role in the immune system – also known as T lymphocytes 

Are a protein known as immunoglobulins, which bind to antigens or inhibits pathogen function by disrupting certain processes 

Formation

Originate from hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow then travel to the thymus gland where they mature and differentiate into specific types of T cells 

Originate from stem cells in the bone marrow where they are formed and released from specific B cells in response to a signal from a T cell

Structure

May vary in structure depending on specific type but the membrane surface of all types feature T-cell receptors, which are complex structures consisting of multiple polypeptide chains

Are protein molecules that typically consist of about 4 polypeptide chains in addition to other chains, some of which are modified for attachment to antigens

Types 

2 types that vary in terms of function and structure:

• Cytotoxic T-cells that are directly responsible for killing pathogens
• Helper T-cells that play a supportive role in coordinating immune responses 

5 types that vary in terms of location, specific function and structure of the chain part of the molecule: 

• IgA
• IgE
• IgM
• IgG 
• IgD

Function  

Different types have different functions:   

• Cytotoxic T-cells directly kill foreign intruders
• Helper T-cells assist cytotoxic T-cells and B cells by activating other cells of the immune system

May disable the action of pathogenic microbes by binding to the antigens on the organism causing it to clump and become dysfunctional or may slow down pathogen movement or paralyze it