The Adaptive Immune Response Requires Exposure to Specific Epitopes for Activation

Question

The adaptive immune response requires exposure to specific epitopes for activation.

Accepted Answer

The adaptive immune response is tailored specifically to the pathogen encountered. This requires recognition of specific antigens or epitopes. Once these antigens are recognized, the adaptive immune response is activated, leading to the generation of specific immune cells and the production of antibodies targeted to these specific epitopes. Therefore, exposure to specific epitopes is necessary for the adaptive immune response to occur.