What is the difference between humoral and cell mediated immunity?

Humoral: An invading pathogen in the blood or lymph has foreign antigens on its surface. This activates B cells which then produce antibodies against the antigen.Cell mediated: One of the body’s own cells becomes changed in some way. For example a cell is Infected by a virus or a cell becomes cancerous. This triggers T lymphocytes which kill the infected cell.

CA
Answered by Charlotte A. Biology tutor

3248 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe how the structure of an antibody is related to its function?


Describe the differences between hydrophobic and hydrophilic signalling.


How are blood glucose levels regulated in humans?


Why does fetal haemoglobin have a higher affinity for oxygen than an adult haemoglobin?


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