Which statement about memory is true?

Which statement about memory is true?

• A. Innate has memory
• B. Adaptive memory arises only after repeated exposures
• C. Innate memory is identical to adaptive memory
• D. Immunological memory is a feature of the adaptive immune system

Answer: (D)

Memory in the immune system refers to the ability to respond more quickly and effectively on a second encounter with the same pathogen. This is a hallmark of the adaptive immune system, which generates antigen-specific B and T lymphocytes after the first exposure. B cells become plasma cells that produce antibodies and memory B cells, while T cells form memory T cells. When re-exposed, these memory cells mount a faster, stronger response with high-affinity antibodies and robust cellular activity, often preventing illness or lessening its severity. The other statements don’t fit this pattern. Innate immunity is generally non-specific and lacks the pathogen-specific memory of the adaptive system, even though some heightened responses can occur after prior challenges. Adaptive memory is established during the initial encounter, not only after multiple exposures. And innate memory is not the same as adaptive memory, since they differ in specificity, mechanism, and longevity.

Memory in the immune system refers to the ability to respond more quickly and effectively on a second encounter with the same pathogen. This is a hallmark of the adaptive immune system, which generates antigen-specific B and T lymphocytes after the first exposure. B cells become plasma cells that produce antibodies and memory B cells, while T cells form memory T cells. When re-exposed, these memory cells mount a faster, stronger response with high-affinity antibodies and robust cellular activity, often preventing illness or lessening its severity.

The other statements don’t fit this pattern. Innate immunity is generally non-specific and lacks the pathogen-specific memory of the adaptive system, even though some heightened responses can occur after prior challenges. Adaptive memory is established during the initial encounter, not only after multiple exposures. And innate memory is not the same as adaptive memory, since they differ in specificity, mechanism, and longevity.