[Campbell Biology P.1008] What is a key difference in how B cells and T cells recognize antig... | Practice Question
What is a key difference in how B cells and T cells recognize antigens?
A: B cells recognize antigen fragments presented on MHC molecules, while T cells recognize intact antigens in body fluids.
B: B cells secrete antibodies upon antigen recognition, whereas T cells directly engulf the pathogen.
C: B cell receptors bind to intact antigens, either free or on pathogen surfaces, while T cell receptors bind to antigen fragments displayed on MHC molecules on host cells.
D: T cells can recognize antigens in the blood and lymph, but B cells can only recognize antigens on infected host cells.
Explanation
The text states: 'Whereas the antigen receptors of B cells bind to epitopes of intact antigens protruding from pathogens or circulating free in body fluids, antigen receptors of T cells bind only to fragments of antigens that are displayed, or presented, on the surface of host cells.'