Question

Enumerate and discuss in detail the steps in the process of B cell activation. What are plasma B cells and what are memory cells?

Answer 1

B-cells are activated by the binding of antigen to receptors on the surface. It causes the cell to divide and proliferate. Some stimulated B-cells become plasma cells and secrete antibodies. Others become long-lived memory B-cells can differentiate into plasma cells.

Steps in the process of B cell activation:

1. B cell exposed to antigen and binds to receptors
2. B cell displays epitope, Helper T cell binds secretes interleukin
3. Interleukin stimulates B cell to divide
4. Either leads to memory or plasma cells
5. Plasma cells secrete antibody

Plasma B cells are plasmocytes and plasmacytes; and secrete large volumes of antibodies. They are transported by the blood plasma and the lymphatic system.

Memory cells are the basis for immunological memory. Upon recognizing a pathogen that has infected the body previously, the adaptive immune system responds stronger and more rapidly.