Final answer:
B cells differentiate into plasma cells that secrete antibodies after binding to antigens. These antibodies are crucial for the immune response, and the process often involves cytokine signals from helper T cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
After binding to antigens, B cells differentiate into short-lived cells that secrete antibodies. Specifically, the stimulated B cells become plasma cells, which are responsible for the synthesis and secretion of antibodies at a remarkable rate, potentially up to 100 million molecules per hour. These antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins (Igs), are crucial agents of humoral immunity, playing a key role in identifying and neutralizing pathogens in the body.
It is important to note that the transformation of B cells into plasma cells is often dependent on the help of T cells. Signals from helper T cells, particularly Th2 cells, secrete cytokines that induce B cells to mature into antibody-secreting plasma cells. Antibodies produced by plasma cells are found in various bodily fluids and are central to the immune response against infections.