Most B and T Lymphocytes in the Circulation Appear as Small

question 38

Essay

Most B and T lymphocytes in the circulation appear as small, inactive cells, with little cytoplasm, few cytoplasmic organelles, and nuclei containing condensed inactive chromatin. Yet these cells comprise the adaptive immune response, without which individuals die in infancy. What is the explanation for this apparent dichotomy?

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Definitions:

Interference

A phenomenon where previously learned information conflicts with the retention or recall of new information.

Retroactive Interference

A phenomenon where newly acquired information hinders the recall of previously learned information.

Sociology

The study of social behavior, society, patterns of social relationships, social interaction, and culture that surrounds everyday life.

Psychology

The scientific study of the mind and behavior, including processes related to perception, cognition, emotion, and social interactions.