Final answer:
The statement is false; T-dependent antigens, not T-independent antigens, lead to the production of both plasma cells and memory B cells. T-independent antigens activate B cells without T cell help and generally do not generate memory B cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that antigens that evoke the production of both plasma cells and memory B cells are T-independent antigens is false. T-independent antigens are usually in the form of repeated carbohydrate moieties found on the cell walls of bacteria that can activate B cells without the help from T cells; however, they primarily induce the production of IgM antibodies from plasma cells and do not usually generate memory B cells. In contrast, T-dependent antigens require the assistance of helper T cells (Th2 cells) that provide signals to B cells, leading to the production of high-affinity antibodies and the formation of memory B cells that are crucial for a stronger and faster response upon subsequent exposure to the same pathogen.
The two signals required for T cell-independent activation of B cells are the cross-linking of B cell receptors (BCRs) by repetitive antigen epitopes and a second signal such as the interaction with Toll-like receptors (TLRs). The function of plasma cells is to produce antibodies to fight against pathogens, while memory B cells retain information about the pathogen to mount a more effective response during subsequent exposures.