The ability to recognize non-self-antigens and defend the body against invading pathogens is a fundamental component of immuocompetence in lymphocytes. A lymphocyte is a type of white blood cell that helps identify and attack harmful bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances that the body deems “non-self”. They are present in both the adaptive and innate immune systems, and the ability of a lymphocyte to recognize and respond to non-self-antigens is what gives it immunocompetence.

Cellular Processes

Lymphocytes have two main cellular functions in the immune system: they can produce antibodies, which are proteins that help rid the body of foreign substances, and they can also respond to antigens, which are molecules that identify and bind to foreign substances. Lymphocytes are able to recognize non-self-antigens through a process called antigen-presentation. During antigen-presentation, the antigen is processed and presented to the surface of the lymphocyte. If the foreign antigen is recognized as non-self, the lymphocyte will then respond by producing antibodies or activating other cells in the immune system to respond.

Cellular Markers

Lymphocytes have many different cellular markers on their surface that help identify and recognize foreign antigens. These markers can be divided into two classes: MHC I and MHC II. MHC I molecules are used to identify self-antigens, while MHC II molecules are used to identify non-self-antigens. The lymphocyte will then activate an immune response if the molecules on the surface of the antigen match the molecular markers on the surface of the lymphocyte.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a lymphocyte is a type of white blood cell which helps to identify and attack harmful bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances. The ability of a lymphocyte to recognize and respond to non-self-antigens is what gives it immunocompetence. Lymphocytes have two main cellular functions in the immune system: they can produce antibodies and they can also respond to antigens. The lymphocyte is able to recognize non-self-antigens through a process called antigen-presentation. Finally, lymphocytes have many different cellular markers on their surface that help identify and recognize foreign antigens.