Polyclonal response

Definition

A polyclonal response is when the immune system activates multiple types of B lymphocytes (B cells), which then produce different antibodies against the same pathogen. This diverse antibody production enhances the ability to neutralize and eliminate a wide range of antigens presented by the pathogen.

Related terms

Antigen: A substance that induces an immune response by stimulating the production of antibodies.

B lymphocytes (B cells): A type of white blood cell that produces antibodies as part of the body's adaptive immune response.

Antibody: A protein produced by B cells that specifically binds to an antigen, marking it for destruction by other components of the immune system