What is the Difference Between Humoral and Cell Mediated Immunity?

The main differences between humoral and cell-mediated immunity are as follows:

1. Immune response: Humoral immunity is an antibody-mediated response primarily driven by B cells, which produce antigen-specific antibodies after detecting a specific antigen. In contrast, cell-mediated immunity does not rely on antibodies for its adaptive immune functions and is primarily driven by mature T cells, macrophages, and the release of cytokines in response to an antigen.
2. Location of action: Humoral immunity deals with antigens from pathogens that are freely circulating or outside the infected cells. On the other hand, cellular immunity occurs inside infected cells and is mediated by T lymphocytes.
3. Activation: In humoral immunity, B cells release antibodies that bind to the antigens and neutralize the microbes. In cell-mediated immunity, helper T cells release cytokines that activate phagocytic cells, which phagocytose and kill the pathogens.
4. Speed of response: Humoral immunity is quick in response, while cell-mediated immunity shows a delayed response.
5. Participating cells: Both CD4+ and CD8+ cells participate in cell-mediated immunity, whereas only TH cells participate in humoral immunity.
6. Hypersensitivity: Cell-mediated immunity mediates hypersensitivity type IV, while humoral immunity mediates hypersensitivity types I, II, and III.

In summary, humoral immunity involves the production of antigen-specific antibodies by B cells, while cell-mediated immunity relies on the actions of T cells, macrophages, and cytokines. These two types of adaptive immune responses have different modes of action, locations, speeds, participating cells, and hypersensitivity types.

Comparative Table: Humoral vs Cell Mediated Immunity

Here is a table comparing humoral and cell-mediated immunity:

Humoral immunity is antibody-mediated and primarily driven by B cells, while cell-mediated immunity is facilitated by T-helper and cytotoxic T cells. Both humoral and cell-mediated immunity are types of adaptive immune responses that protect the body against various pathogens.