The T and B lymphocytes (T and B Cells) are involved in the acquired or antigen-specific immune response given that they are the only cells in the organism able to recognize and respond specifically to each antigenic epitope.
B-cells are a type of lymphocyte produce antibodies, which play a key part in immunity. Each B cell contains a single round nucleus. B cells produce antibodies, or Y-shaped chromosomes to fight bacteria and viruses. These antibodies are Y-shaped proteins that are specific to each pathogen and are able to lock onto the surface of an invading cell and mark it for destruction by other immune cells.
B-cells were first defined and distinguished from T cells almost 50 years ago. Both B cells and T cells recognize pathogens with antigen-specific receptors, but they differ in their developmental pathways and functions during infections.
Synthesized exclusively by B-cells, antibodies are produced in billions of forms, each with a different amino acid sequence and a different antigen-binding site. B-cells recognize soluble antigens via immunoglobulins anchored on their surface and differentiate into antibody-producing cells, called plasma cells, capable of secreting immunoglobulins.
Memory B-cells are long lived and can quickly be reactivated to differentiate into plasma cells following secondary infection. Together, memory B-cells and long-lived plasma cells form the basis for life-long B-cell-mediated protection against infections.
B-cells
