Memory cells
What Memory cells means in Biology GCSE, as defined for AQA, OCR.
Definitions of Memory cells
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Memory cells in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Cells the person produces so that if the live pathogen later enters the body, they recognise the same antigens and trigger a faster, larger antibody response.
White blood cells produce these in response to a vaccine, and on later infection they recognise the pathogen's antigens and produce antibodies quickly.
Long-lived lymphocytes that persist in lymphatic tissue and divide rapidly into antibody-producing plasma cells upon secondary exposure.
Topics that use Memory cells
- Vaccination (AQA GCSE)
- Monitoring and maintaining health (OCR GCSE)
Related terms
- immunological memory
- AIDS
- airborne droplets
- antibiotics versus antivirals
- antibodies
- antigen detection with antibodies
- Antigens and antibodies
- antiseptic chemicals
Using Memory cells in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Biology questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge