Which of the following is a major component of the innate immune system?

• A. Plasma cells
• B. Cytotoxic T cells
• C. Neutrophils
• D. Memory B cells

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the difference between the innate and adaptive immune systems. The innate immune system provides immediate, non-specific defense against pathogens, while the adaptive immune system provides a specific response and memory.
2. Identify the cell types listed: Plasma cells and Memory B cells are part of the adaptive immune system because they are involved in antibody production and immunological memory.
3. Cytotoxic T cells are also part of the adaptive immune system; they specifically target infected cells based on antigen recognition.
4. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that act as first responders in the innate immune system. They perform phagocytosis and release enzymes to destroy pathogens quickly and non-specifically.
5. Therefore, the major component of the innate immune system among the options given is Neutrophils, as they provide rapid, non-specific defense without prior exposure to the pathogen.