The exaggerated response of the immune system to certain antigens present in the environment is called as:
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → Allergy
An allergy is an exaggerated response of the immune system to certain antigens in the environment, such as dust, pollen, mites and animal dander. These substances are called allergens. The body makes antibodies of the IgE type against them, and chemicals such as histamine and serotonin are released from mast cells.
(1) Interferons — Incorrect. Interferons are proteins that virus-infected cells secrete. They protect the healthy cells from further viral infection.
(2) Passive immunity — Incorrect. In passive immunity, ready-made antibodies are given to the body, as in the colostrum of the mother’s milk.
(3) Auto-immunity — Incorrect. In auto-immunity, the immune system attacks the body’s own cells, as in rheumatoid arthritis. The response is against “self”, not against outside antigens.
(4) Allergy — Correct. It is the exaggerated response to environmental antigens.
Note: A similar question was also asked in CUET (UG) 2023 on 13-06-2023 (Slot 3) and on 11-06-2023 (Slot 3).
NCERT Extract:
Allergies –
