B-cells
B-cells
B-cells (pronounced: /biː sɛlz/), also known as B lymphocytes, are a type of white blood cell that plays a significant role in the immune system by producing antibodies.
Etymology
The term "B-cell" comes from the organ where they were first discovered and where they mature in birds, the bursa of Fabricius. In mammals, including humans, B-cells mature in the bone marrow, which coincidentally also starts with a "B".
Function
B-cells are responsible for the production of antibodies in response to invading pathogens. These antibodies are specific to the antigen of the pathogen and help in its neutralization. B-cells also play a role in the activation of T-cells and in the formation of memory cells.
Types of B-cells
There are several types of B-cells, including:
- Plasma cells: These are mature B-cells that produce antibodies.
- Memory B-cells: These cells remember the same pathogen for faster antibody production in future infections.
- Regulatory B-cells: These cells regulate immune responses and prevent autoimmunity.
Related Terms
- Antigen
- Antibody
- T-cells
- White blood cells
- Immune system
- Pathogens
- Bone marrow
- Bursa of Fabricius
- Plasma cells
- Memory B-cells
- Regulatory B-cells
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on B-cells
- Wikipedia's article - B-cells
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