What is the function of memory cells in the immune response?

Memory cells play a crucial role in the immune response by remembering antigens that the body has previously encountered. When the immune system first encounters a pathogen, it generates an adaptive response that includes the formation of memory T and B cells. These cells remain in the body long after the initial infection has been cleared, providing long-lasting immunity.

If the same pathogen enters the body again, these memory cells can quickly recognize the specific antigen associated with that pathogen. This rapid recognition allows the immune system to mount a faster and more effective response compared to the primary response, which is the first exposure to the antigen. The ability of memory cells to remember antigens is fundamental to the effectiveness of vaccinations, as they create an immunological memory that helps the body respond more vigorously if exposed to the disease in the future.