Biology · Immunity

After a liver transplant, the body's immune system may view the transplanted organ as a foreign entity and initiate an immune response against it, known as graft rejection. T-lymphocytes play a central role in this process. By suppressing T-lymphocyte activity, doctors aim to reduce the risk of the immune system attacking the transplanted liver, thereby increasing the chances of successful transplantation and organ function. The other options, while related to immune function, do not accurately reflect the primary objective of T-lymphocyte suppression in this context. For instance, increasing antibody production and preventing infections are important considerations in transplant care, but they are not the main reason for suppressing T-lymphocytes in order to prevent graft rejection.

This option is incorrect because suppressing T-lymphocyte activity does not lead to an increase in antibody production. Antibody production is primarily the function of B-lymphocytes, and suppressing T-lymphocytes may reduce overall immune response.

This option is partially correct but misleading. While it is important to prevent infections in transplant patients, the primary reason for suppressing T-lymphocyte activity is to prevent the immune system from rejecting the new organ. Infection prevention is a secondary concern.

This is the correct answer. After a liver transplant, the patient's immune system may recognize the liver as foreign and attack it. Suppressing T-lymphocyte activity is crucial in preventing this response, allowing the transplanted organ to function properly.

This option is incorrect. Memory cells are formed as a result of an immune response to pathogens, and suppressing T-lymphocyte activity would actually hinder the formation of memory cells, not promote it.