What is acquired immunity?

Acquired immunity, also known as adaptive immunity, is a crucial component of the immune system that helps provide long-term protection against pathogens. It is called ‘acquired’ immunity because it develops over time as a result of exposure to various antigens on bacterial or viral particles.

When your immune system encounters a new antigen, specialized cells called lymphocytes, including B cells and T cells, recognize and respond to it. B cells produce antibodies that bind to the antigen, neutralizing it or marking it for destruction by other immune cells called T cells.

Acquired immunity is able to ‘remember’ certain antigens. If the same pathogen enters your body again, your immune cells respond rapidly and produce a targeted response, leading to a faster and more efficient clearance of the infection. This memory response is the basis for long-term immunity and explains why individuals are typically immune to diseases they have previously encountered.