Final answer:
When the antigen has selected an appropriate B cell, some B cells will secrete IgM antibodies in the bone marrow, while others move to the germinal centers to become either plasma cells or memory B cells as part of the adaptive immune system's response.
Step-by-step explanation:
When an antigen has selected an appropriate B cell, the B cell will produce effector cells. Some B cells will move deeper into the bone marrow and begin to secrete IgM antibodies, while others move to the germinal centers.
B cells are essential components of the adaptive immune system and undergo a process of selection and differentiation upon encountering an antigen. This encounter typically occurs in secondary lymphoid organs like the spleen or lymph nodes. Once activated, B cells either differentiate into plasma cells, which are the antibody-secreting cells, or form memory B cells for a more rapid response during subsequent encounters with the same antigen.
The plasma cells secrete high levels of antibodies, sometimes up to 100 million molecules per hour, which function as part of our body's humoral immunity. These antibodies are capable of neutralizing or marking pathogens for destruction.