The specific immune reaction defines the acquired cellular (T-lymphocytes) and/or humoral (B-lymphocytes, plasma cells, anti-bodies) immune response of the body that is directed against specific antigens (e.g. against certain proteins of a microorganism).
Procedure
The reactions that take place during specific immune reactions are founded on the initial presentation of antigens depended on MHC.
Depending on the antigen it takes place restricted locally by MHC-I mediated activation of cytotoxic T-cells – e.g. in a virus infection or in malign cells.
MHC-II dependent by professional antigen presenting cells (dendritic cells, macrophages) – e.g. in a bacterial infection.