Based on the provided information, NK cells are distinct from both B and T cells.
Understanding Key Immune Cells
Our immune system relies on various types of cells to defend the body against threats like infections and diseases. The provided reference highlights three key types of cells involved in these defense mechanisms.
Here's a summary of these cells and their primary functions as outlined in the reference:
| Cell Type | Primary Function(s) |
|---|---|
| B lymphocytes (B cells) | Make antibodies that help your body fight infections. |
| T lymphocytes (T cells) | Attack foreign cells, cancer cells, and cells infected with a virus. |
| Natural killer cells (NK cells) | Contain substances that can kill tumor cells or cells infected with a virus. |
As presented in the table, derived directly from the reference material, B lymphocytes, T lymphocytes, and Natural killer cells are listed as separate categories, each with its own described function.
Distinct Roles in Defense
Each of these cell types plays a crucial but different role in protecting your health:
- B cells contribute to immunity by producing antibodies, which are proteins that target and neutralize specific pathogens.
- T cells are involved in cell-mediated immunity, playing a role in directly attacking threats like foreign invaders or cells that have become cancerous or infected by viruses.
- NK cells are described as containing substances specifically capable of killing certain target cells, particularly tumor cells or those compromised by viral infection.
Therefore, according to the provided reference material, NK cells are presented as a distinct type of immune cell with specific functions, separate from the roles described for B lymphocytes and T lymphocytes.
