The Difference between T Dependent Antigens and T Independent Antigens

1. T Dependent Antigens

Their chemical structure is mainly made of proteins material in nature.

These have a germinal center formation

These require a T-Helper cell to stimulate B cells to produce antibodies

T-Dependent Antigens are more complex in nature when compared to T-Independent Antigens

Possess isotope (IgG, IgE and IgA) switching properties

T-Dependent antigens exhibit secondary response with memory cells present.

For T-Dependent antigens there are long lasting serum antibody titers ( Long lived PC's)

Affinity maturation occurs for these antigen types with high affinity Ab's

For these antigens, Follicular B (B2) cells form comprise the primary B cell subset

2. T-Independent Antigens

Chemical nature comprises polymeric antigens especially polysaccharides with also glycolipids and
certain nucleic acids

There is no germinal center formation for T-I antigens

Comprise little or few secondary isotopes in their action mechanism i.e IgG and IgA

There is no high affinity Ab’s or affinity maturation for these antigens

Exhibit limited secondary response with memory B cells being exclusive for some antigens too

For these T-Independent antigens there are limited long lasting serum antibody titers (long-lived PC's)

These antigens stimulate the B cell without any help form the T-cells

Are usually Polysaccharide chains with repeating subunits

No memory cells generated

Fewer complexes for these antigens when compared to the T-Dependent Antigens

Provide a weaker immune response unlike T-Dependent Antigens