Which of the following best describes what specific (adaptive) immunity involves molecular recognition of?

• A. antigens
• B. cytokines
• C. complement proteins
• D. antibodies

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of specific (adaptive) immunity. It is the part of the immune system that adapts to recognize and remember specific pathogens for a stronger response upon re-exposure.
2. Step 2: Recall that molecular recognition in adaptive immunity involves identifying unique molecules that are foreign to the body, which are called antigens.
3. Step 3: Differentiate between the options: cytokines are signaling molecules, complement proteins are part of innate immunity, and antibodies are produced as a response to antigens but are not what the immune system initially recognizes.
4. Step 4: Recognize that adaptive immunity specifically involves the recognition of antigens by receptors on B cells and T cells, which triggers the immune response.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best description of what specific (adaptive) immunity involves molecular recognition of is antigens.