Final answer:
Somatic hypermutation is a process in B cells that leads to high mutation rates in the variable regions of antibody genes, which produces antibodies with higher affinity for specific antigens. This process is induced by the expression of enzymes, particularly activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID).
Step-by-step explanation:
Somatic hypermutation is a biological process that occurs in B cells during the immune response. It is characterized by a high rate of mutation specifically in the variable regions of antibody genes, which allows for the production of antibodies with a higher affinity for their specific antigen. This process is induced by the expression of specific enzymes, not by cytokines, antigens, or antibodies themselves. Among these enzymes, activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) is a key player, initiating the mutation process. Somatic hypermutation contributes to the diversity and specificity of the antibody repertoire, which is critical for the body's ability to recognize and neutralize a wide array of pathogens.