Immune System Quizlet Related

Review Immune System Quizlet related questions and content

Which one of the following processes emerged earliest during the course of evolution?

  • A. Antigen presentation
  • B. Antibody production
  • C. Phagocytosis
  • D. Thymic education
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Phagocytosis. Phagocytosis is a fundamental process that emerged early in evolution for cellular organisms to engulf and digest particles. This process is essential for basic survival and defense mechanisms.

A: Antigen presentation and B: Antibody production are more advanced immune responses that occur in higher organisms and require a complex immune system.

D: Thymic education is a process specific to vertebrates involving the maturation and selection of T cells, which is a more evolved mechanism compared to phagocytosis.

Therefore, phagocytosis is the earliest process among the options listed as it is essential for basic cellular survival and predates the development of advanced immune responses.