Photo: Memory B lymphocytes
The immune system is like a perfectly organised army, made up of different specialised units. Among the most important “soldiers” are T and B cells, the true pillars of adaptive immunity, capable of recognising specific enemies and remembering them for life.
Adaptive immunity: your body's memory
Unlike innate immunity, which reacts immediately but non-specifically, adaptive immunity needs time to ‘learn’ to recognise a specific enemy. However, this system is extremely accurate and capable of ‘remembering’ pathogens it has already encountered.
The main players in adaptive immunity are T and B lymphocytes, which together form a sophisticated defence mechanism.
B cells - antibody producers
B cells develop in the bone marrow and their main role is to produce antibodies. When a B cell identifies a foreign antigen (e.g., part of a virus or bacterium), it transforms into a plasma cell, which begins to produce thousands of specific antibodies.
These antibodies bind to pathogens and mark them for destruction by other immune cells. They function as “markers” that say, “This is an enemy, eliminate it!”
Once the infection is defeated, some B cells turn into memory B cells, which remain in the body for decades. When they encounter the same pathogen again, they can quickly activate antibody production, often before symptoms of the disease even appear.
T cells - multifunctional fighters
T cells mature in the thymus (hence their name) and there are several types, each with a different function:
Helper T cells (CD4+)
They act as ‘commanders’ that coordinate the immune response. They activate B cells and promote the production of antibodies. They also stimulate macrophages to destroy pathogens.
Cytotoxic T cells (CD8+)
These cells directly kill infected or abnormal cells, similar to NK cells. They recognise cells infected with viruses or tumour cells and trigger their programmed cell death.
Regulatory T cells
These play a key role in preventing autoimmune reactions by “slowing down” the immune response when it is no longer needed. They prevent the immune system from attacking its own tissues.
Memory T cells
Like memory B cells, they remember encounters with pathogens and remain in the body for a long time, ready to react quickly if they encounter the same enemy again.
Cooperation between T and B cells: a perfect partnership
T and B cells do not work in isolation: their cooperation is essential for an effective immune response. This process is like a well-rehearsed dance:
1. When a pathogen enters the body, it is captured by dendritic cells, which “present” it to T cells
2. Helper T cells recognise the pathogen and activate
3. Activated helper T cells stimulate B cells that have recognised the same pathogen
4. B cells transform into plasma cells and begin producing antibodies
5. Cytotoxic T cells simultaneously seek out and destroy infected cells
6. Once the threat is eliminated, some T and B cells transform into memory cells
Age-related changes in T and B cells
With age, the number and functionality of T and B cells gradually change:
- The thymus shrinks (involutes), leading to a decrease in the production of new T cells
- T cell diversity decreases - the body has a smaller ‘library’ of recognised pathogens
- B cells produce less effective antibodies
- Memory cells are retained, but new immune responses are slower
These changes explain why the immune system of older people is often less effective at fighting new pathogens.
Factors influencing T and B cell function
Many factors can positively or negatively influence T and B cell function:
Nutrition
A deficiency in protein, zinc, selenium and vitamins A, C, D and E can disrupt the normal functioning of T and B cells. A balanced diet rich in these nutrients promotes an optimal immune response.
Physical
Regular, moderate physical activity promotes healthy circulation of T and B cells and improves their functionality. However, extremely intense physical exercise can temporarily suppress their activity.
Stress
Chronic stress increases cortisol levels, which can inhibit T cell function and reduce antibody production by B cells.
Sleep
During deep sleep, the immune system regenerates and ‘rebuilds’ itself. Lack of sleep disrupts the balance of T cells and reduces the effectiveness of the immune response.
The Japanese approach to supporting T and B cells
Japanese researchers have spent decades studying natural ways to support T and B cell function. Their findings highlight the importance of:
- Fermented foods (natto, miso, kimchi), which promote healthy gut microflora
Modern nutrition research is providing interesting insights into natural substances that can support T and B cell function. Japanese nutrition experts have long been interested in polysaccharides extracted from mushrooms and rice bran. ImunoBran, with its MGN-3 Arabinoxylane component, is inspired by this Japanese approach to immune balance. As a dietary supplement, it can be incorporated into a holistic approach to health, combined with a balanced diet, regular physical activity and sufficient sleep, all of which contribute to the optimal functioning of the immune system.