B cells, also known as B lymphocytes, are the type of white blood cells responsible for secreting antibodies. When a B cell encounters an antigen, a marker on a foreign substance like a virus or bacteria, it differentiates into a plasma cell. These plasma cells then produce and release antibodies into the bloodstream, where they can bind to the specific antigen and neutralize it.
Antibodies are crucial for the adaptive immune response, as they help to target and eliminate pathogens, preventing infections and diseases.
