Final answer:
B cell activation involves a B cell binding an antigen, presenting it to a T helper cell, followed by the release of cytokines from the T helper cell which signal the B cell to proliferate into plasma cells and memory B cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process of B cell activation is a crucial part of the immune response to pathogens. To place the events in order:
- B cell binds free antigen.
- B cell engulfs antigen and presents it to a T helper cell.
- Activated helper T cell release IL-4.
- B cell proliferates.
This sequence of events starts with the recognition and binding of the antigen by the B cell, followed by engulfing the antigen and presenting peptide fragments on its MHC II to T helper cells. The T helper cells then become activated and release cytokines like IL-4, which signal the B cell to proliferate and differentiate into plasma cells that produce antibodies and memory B cells that aid in long-lasting immunity.