[Campbell Biology P.1024] How do B cells and T cells primarily recognize epitopes according t... | Practice Question

How do B cells and T cells primarily recognize epitopes according to the text?

  • A: B cells recognize intact antigens directly; T cells recognize antigen fragments presented by MHC molecules.
  • B: B cells recognize antigen fragments presented by MHC; T cells recognize intact antigens directly.
  • C: Both B cells and T cells recognize intact antigens circulating in the blood or lymph.
  • D: Both B cells and T cells recognize antigens only after they have been processed and presented by antigen-presenting cells.

Explanation

Concept 43.2 states: 'B cells and antibodies recognize epitopes on the surface of antigens circulating in the blood or lymph.' It also states: 'T cells recognize protein epitopes in small antigen fragments peptides that are presented on the surface of host cells by major histocompatibility complex MHC molecules.'