Innate immunity includes which of the following components?

• A. B cells
• B. T cells
• C. Macrophages
• D. Antibodies

Answer: (C)

Innate immunity relies on immediate, non-specific defenses. Macrophages are scavenger cells that patrol tissues, recognize common features of pathogens, and engulf them through phagocytosis. They kill the invaders and release cytokines that recruit other immune cells and promote inflammation. They can also present pieces of pathogens to T cells to help start the adaptive response, but their primary role is in the rapid, non-specific defense. B cells and T cells, along with antibodies, belong to the adaptive immune system, providing specific, learned responses after exposure. Since the question asks for a component of innate immunity, macrophages are the best fit.