Journal of Vaccine Research 2024, Vol.14, No.1, 32-39 http://medscipublisher.com/index.php/jvr 34 Figure 2 Memory T cell Memory T cells have a relatively long lifespan, with some capable of surviving for several years or even a lifetime. This long-lived characteristic enables them to maintain immune memory for specific antigens in the body. Upon re-exposure to the same pathogen, they can be quickly and effectively activated, accelerating the initiation of the immune response. 1.3 Other types of immune memory cells In the immune system, besides memory B cells and memory T cells, there are also other types of immune memory cells. These cells, after a previous infection, can form immune memory and exhibit a faster and more effective response upon encountering the same or similar pathogens again. There are complex interactions among various cell types in the immune system. Memory B cells and T cells may collaborate with other immune cells, collectively building a comprehensive immune memory against pathogens. This interplay helps enhance the overall efficiency and flexibility of the immune system. Natural Killer cells (NK cells) are a type of large granular lymphocyte that primarily participates in the killing of infected and tumor cells. Research indicates that NK cells can also form immune memory. Following a previous infection, activated NK cells may develop memory, allowing them to more quickly engage in killing activity upon encountering the same pathogen again. This type of memory helps enhance the immune system's long-term memory against specific pathogens (Hu and Zhu, 2023). Macrophages are a type of phagocytic cell primarily responsible for clearing bacteria, dead cells, and other debris within the body. Research suggests that macrophages may also possess a certain degree of immune memory. During a previous infection, macrophages may acquire memory for specific antigens through the process of engulfing and processing pathogens, enhancing their response to subsequent infections. Dendritic cells are a specialized type of antigen-presenting cell responsible for initiating and regulating immune responses. Research indicates that dendritic cells may also form immune memory. They assist in activating T cells by capturing, processing, and presenting antigens, thereby maintaining immune memory for pathogens following a previous infection. Some other white blood cells, such as eosinophils and basophils, may also exhibit a certain degree of immune memory. These cells may acquire memory for specific antigens through different mechanisms following a previous infection, thereby enhancing the immune system's response to subsequent infections. 2 Functions of Immune Memory Cells 2.1 Secondary immune response The secondary immune response refers to a faster and more potent reaction of the immune system when the host is re-exposed to the same or a similar pathogen after a previous infection by the same pathogen. This swifter and
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