43. Match the cells in Group I with their corresponding entries in Group II.

(A) P-4, Q-2, R-3, S-5
(B) P-4, Q-2, R-3, S-6
(C) P-3, Q-1, R-2, S-5
(D) P-3, Q-1, R-2, S-6

Step-by-Step Matching With Explanation

P) Mast Cells → Defense against helminthic infection (4)

• Mast cells play a key role in parasitic (helminth) infections.

• They release histamine and inflammatory mediators that help expel parasites.

• Strongly associated with IgE-mediated immune responses.

✅ Correct match: P–4

Q) Natural Killer (NK) Cells → Expression of CD56 (2)

• NK cells are cytotoxic lymphocytes of innate immunity.

• A defining surface marker of NK cells is CD56 (along with CD16).

• Used clinically to identify NK cells.

✅ Correct match: Q–2

R) Neutrophils → Contains azurophilic granules (3)

• Neutrophils are first responders in bacterial infections.

• They contain azurophilic (primary) granules rich in myeloperoxidase and defensins.

• Essential for phagocytosis and intracellular killing.

✅ Correct match: R–3

S) Dendritic Cells → Contains long membranous projections (6)

• Dendritic cells have long cytoplasmic extensions (“dendrites”).

• These projections increase surface area for antigen capture and presentation.

• They act as professional antigen-presenting cells (APCs).

✅ Correct match: S–6

✅ Final Correct Answer

Option (B)

P–4, Q–2, R–3, S–6

Introduction

Understanding how to match the cells with their corresponding entries is a high-yield topic in immunology and frequently asked in exams such as NEET, CUET, CSIR-NET, and university assessments. This MCQ tests knowledge of immune cell structure, markers, and functions. In this article, we explain each cell type and its correct match step by step to help you score confidently.

Explanation of Cell–Function Matching

Mast Cells

Mast cells are tissue-resident immune cells involved in allergic reactions and parasitic defense. They release histamine, proteases, and cytokines, making them especially effective against helminthic infections.

➡ Correct function: Defense against helminthic infection

Natural Killer (NK) Cells

NK cells are part of innate immunity and are known for killing virus-infected and tumor cells. Their hallmark surface marker is CD56, used widely for identification.

➡ Correct function: Expression of CD56

Neutrophils

Neutrophils are the most abundant white blood cells and primary phagocytes. They contain azurophilic granules, which include enzymes crucial for destroying pathogens.

➡ Correct function: Contains azurophilic granules

Dendritic Cells

Dendritic cells possess long membranous projections that help them trap antigens efficiently. They are the most potent antigen-presenting cells in the immune system.

➡ Correct function: Contains long membranous projections

Correct Matching Summary

Final Answer

✅ Option (B): P–4, Q–2, R–3, S–6

Exam Tip

CD56 = NK cells, azurophilic granules = neutrophils, dendrites = dendritic cells, parasites = mast cells.
Remembering these one-line associations makes MCQs easy and fast.