Because T-cell-independent antigens do not activate helper T cells, they fail to induce B cell memory, affinity maturation, or class switching, all of which require help from T cells. They therefore mainly stimulate the production of low-affinity (but high-avidity) IgM antibodies.
Lister's work led to a reduction in post-operative infections and made surgery safer for patients, distinguishing him as the "father of modern surgery"
