True or False: B cells live longer than T cells.

The assertion that B cells live longer than T cells is not universally true, making the statement false. In general, T cells and B cells have different lifespans that can vary significantly depending on their activation state and the conditions of the immune response.

Naive T cells typically have a relatively short lifespan and can undergo activation and differentiation into effector T cells once they encounter their specific antigen. These effector T cells may have varying lifespans; some may die shortly after the immune response, while others can differentiate into long-lived memory T cells that provide lasting immunity.

B cells similarly have their own dynamics. Naive B cells also have short lifespans until they become activated following antigen exposure. Upon activation, they can differentiate into plasma cells that produce antibodies or memory B cells that can persist long-term.

The primary consideration is that both B cells and T cells are regulated by different mechanisms in the immune system, and their lifespans can be influenced by factors such as chronic infection or the health status of the individual. Thus, stating that B cells always live longer than T cells oversimplifies the complex interplay of their biology.