What is the primary function of B lymphocytes?

What is the primary function of B lymphocytes?

• A. To produce antibodies against specific antigens
• B. To phagocytose bacteria
• C. To present antigens to T cells but not produce antibodies
• D. To secrete histamine

Answer: (A)

B lymphocytes are the cells that drive humoral immunity by generating antibodies against specific antigens. Each B cell has a B cell receptor that recognizes a particular antigen. When a B cell encounters its antigen and receives help from a helper T cell, it becomes activated and differentiates into plasma cells that secrete large amounts of antibodies tailored to that antigen. These antibodies neutralize pathogens, tag them for destruction, and can activate the complement system, with memory B cells forming to provide quicker responses upon future exposures. While B cells can present antigen to T cells as part of their interactions, their primary effector role is antibody production.

B lymphocytes are the cells that drive humoral immunity by generating antibodies against specific antigens. Each B cell has a B cell receptor that recognizes a particular antigen. When a B cell encounters its antigen and receives help from a helper T cell, it becomes activated and differentiates into plasma cells that secrete large amounts of antibodies tailored to that antigen. These antibodies neutralize pathogens, tag them for destruction, and can activate the complement system, with memory B cells forming to provide quicker responses upon future exposures. While B cells can present antigen to T cells as part of their interactions, their primary effector role is antibody production.