Which of the following statements about innate immunity is TRUE?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Step 1: Innate immunity is the body's first line of defense against pathogens.
Step 2: Physical defenses include barriers like skin and mucous membranes.
Step 3: Cellular defenses include immune cells like macrophages and natural killer cells.
Step 4: These defenses are present from birth and do not require prior exposure to pathogens.
Step 5: Choice C is true as innate immunity encompasses both physical and cellular defenses, making it the correct answer.
Other choices are incorrect:
A: Innate immunity does play a role in stimulating adaptive immunity through antigen presentation.
B: It does not require prior exposure to function, as it is a rapid and non-specific response.
D: Innate immunity is not antigen-specific; adaptive immunity is responsible for antigen-specific responses.