Explain the role of B-lymphocytes and T-lymphocytes in the defence of the body against a virus infection

B-lymphocytes are involved in the humoral response and produce antibodies specific to the antigen. The antibodies bind to antigens and causes the virus to clump together/agglutinate.T-lymphocytes are involved in the cell-mediated response and are involved in producing T-helper cells and T killer cells. Killer T-cells kill cells infected by the virus using proteins such as perforin. T helper cells are involved in aiding the clonal expansion of B cells and also encourages phagocytosis of the agglutinated virus. B lymphocytes also produce memory cells to produce a faster immune response if it ever comes into contact with the same virus again.

Answered by Biology tutor

6699 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe how a protein molecule is produced from mRNA


How does homeostasis in humans serve to regulate blood water potential?


Name the first stage of mitosis, and describe what happens at this stage


How did Meselson and Stahl provide evidence for semi-conservative replication?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning