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Ch. 20 The Lymphatic System and Immunity
Amerman - Human Anatomy & Physiology 2nd Edition
Erin C. Amerman2nd EditionHuman Anatomy & PhysiologyISBN: 9780136873822Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 20, Problem 18

Type I hypersensitivity is due to release of inflammatory mediators from_____, and type IV hypersensitivity is due to the actions of_____.
a. TH cells; macrophages
b. neutrophils; TH cells
c. B cells; TC cells
d. mast cells; TH cells

Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the concept of hypersensitivity. Hypersensitivity refers to an exaggerated immune response to an antigen, which can be classified into four types (I-IV). Type I hypersensitivity is immediate and involves allergic reactions, while Type IV hypersensitivity is delayed and involves cell-mediated immunity.
Step 2: Recall the mechanism of Type I hypersensitivity. It is caused by the release of inflammatory mediators such as histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins from mast cells and basophils after they are activated by IgE antibodies bound to their surface.
Step 3: Recall the mechanism of Type IV hypersensitivity. It is mediated by T cells, specifically TH (helper T) cells, which recruit macrophages and other immune cells to the site of antigen exposure. This process does not involve antibodies but rather a delayed cellular response.
Step 4: Match the descriptions to the options provided. For Type I hypersensitivity, mast cells are responsible for releasing inflammatory mediators. For Type IV hypersensitivity, TH cells play a key role in orchestrating the immune response.
Step 5: Based on the mechanisms described, identify the correct answer by associating the roles of mast cells and TH cells with the respective types of hypersensitivity.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Type I Hypersensitivity

Type I hypersensitivity, also known as immediate hypersensitivity, is an allergic reaction that occurs rapidly after exposure to an allergen. It is primarily mediated by IgE antibodies, which bind to allergens and trigger the degranulation of mast cells and basophils, leading to the release of inflammatory mediators such as histamine. This results in symptoms like itching, swelling, and bronchoconstriction.
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Type IV Hypersensitivity

Type IV hypersensitivity, or delayed-type hypersensitivity, is mediated by T cells rather than antibodies. Specifically, it involves the activation of CD4+ T helper cells and CD8+ cytotoxic T cells, which respond to antigens by releasing cytokines that recruit and activate macrophages. This immune response typically manifests 24 to 48 hours after exposure to the antigen, leading to tissue damage and inflammation.
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Mast Cells and T Cells

Mast cells are a type of immune cell that play a crucial role in allergic reactions and are primarily involved in Type I hypersensitivity. They release histamine and other mediators upon activation. In contrast, T cells, including T helper cells (T<sub>H</sub>) and cytotoxic T cells (T<sub>C</sub>), are essential for cell-mediated immunity and are involved in Type IV hypersensitivity, orchestrating the immune response against intracellular pathogens and foreign antigens.
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