B cells, also known as B lymphocytes, are the specialized cells responsible for producing antibodies in our bodies. These cells are created in the bone marrow and circulate throughout the blood and lymph systems. Antibodies themselves are protective proteins with a distinctive Y-shape, crucial for their function in targeting and neutralizing invaders.
How Antibodies Work
When the body encounters a foreign substance (an antigen), like a bacteria or virus, B cells are activated. This activation triggers a process where B cells differentiate into plasma cells, which are antibody factories. These plasma cells then mass-produce antibodies specifically designed to bind to and neutralize that particular antigen.
- Specificity: Each antibody is uniquely shaped to target a specific antigen. The human body can produce billions of different antibody variations, allowing it to combat a wide range of threats. [Source: Decoding the variety of human antibodies | National Institutes of ...]
- Neutralization: Antibodies bind to antigens, preventing them from infecting cells or causing damage. [Source: Antibodies: Definition, Types & Function]
- Immune Memory: After an infection, some B cells become memory B cells. These cells "remember" the encountered antigen, providing faster and stronger immune response upon subsequent exposure. This is the principle behind vaccination. [Source: How do vaccines work?]
The Role of Antibodies in Immunity
Antibodies are a cornerstone of the adaptive immune system, a specialized defense mechanism that learns and adapts to threats. They work in concert with other immune cells to eliminate pathogens and maintain overall health. The presence of antibodies indicates prior exposure to a specific antigen and contributes significantly to immunity. [Source: In brief: How does the immune system work?]
[Source: Antibodies are produced by B cells, also called B lymphocytes, which are made in bone marrow and found in the blood and lymph.] [Source: 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] [Source: These antibodies are developed by cells called B lymphocytes after the body has been exposed to the invader.] [Source: Your body makes a different antibody for each different type of germ (bug).] [Source: Antibodies are made by our body after infection and after vaccination.]
