Adaptive immunity is a part of the immune system that learns to recognize and specifically target pathogens after initial exposure. It involves the activation of lymphocytes and the formation of immunological memory.
Innate Immunity: The body's first line of defense against pathogens, providing a non-specific response.
Antibodies: Proteins produced by B cells that specifically bind to antigens to neutralize or mark pathogens for destruction.
Lymphocytes: White blood cells that are central to adaptive immunity; includes B cells and T cells.