What is the primary function of B lymphocytes (B cells) in the adaptive immune system?
B lymphocytes are responsible for humoral immunity, targeting extracellular pathogens by producing antibodies through differentiated plasma cells.
Where do B cells develop, and what unique feature do their receptors have compared to T cell receptors?
B cells develop in the bone marrow, and their B cell receptors (BCRs) can bind directly to free-floating antigens, unlike T cell receptors which only bind to antigens presented on MHC molecules.
Describe the process by which a naive B cell becomes activated and the possible outcomes after activation.
A naive B cell encounters a free antigen, internalizes and presents it on MHC class II molecules, and is then activated by helper T cells. After activation, it can proliferate and differentiate into either memory B cells for faster future responses or plasma cells that secrete large amounts of antibodies.
How are B cell receptors (BCRs) structurally related to the antibodies produced by B cells?
B cell receptors are membrane-bound versions of antibodies, sharing a similar Y-shaped structure and antigen-binding sites.
What roles do plasma cells and memory B cells play after B cell activation?
Plasma cells are short-lived effector cells that secrete large quantities of antibodies to combat immediate threats, while memory B cells are long-lived and enable a faster, stronger response upon future exposure to the same antigen.
What is the main role of B lymphocytes (B cells) in the adaptive immune system?
B lymphocytes are responsible for humoral immunity, targeting extracellular pathogens by producing antibodies through differentiated plasma cells.
Where do B cells develop, and how do their receptors differ from T cell receptors?
B cells develop in the bone marrow, and their B cell receptors (BCRs) can bind directly to free-floating antigens, unlike T cell receptors which only bind to antigens presented on MHC molecules.
Describe the process by which a naive B cell becomes activated and what can happen after activation.
A naive B cell encounters a free antigen, internalizes and presents it on MHC class II molecules, and is then activated by helper T cells. After activation, it can proliferate and differentiate into either memory B cells for faster future responses or plasma cells that secrete large amounts of antibodies.
How are B cell receptors (BCRs) structurally related to the antibodies produced by B cells?
B cell receptors are membrane-bound versions of antibodies, sharing a similar Y-shaped structure and antigen-binding sites.
What are the functions of plasma cells and memory B cells after B cell activation?
Plasma cells are short-lived effector cells that secrete large quantities of antibodies to combat immediate threats, while memory B cells are long-lived and enable a faster, stronger response upon future exposure to the same antigen.