Final answer:
B lymphocytes, or B cells, are primarily responsible for producing antibodies which are crucial for the humoral immune response, identifying and targeting specific antigens.
Step-by-step explanation:
B lymphocytes, commonly referred to as B cells, are primarily responsible for producing antibodies in response to pathogens. These antibodies are key components in the humoral immune response, and each antibody is specific to a particular antigen.
The process of antibody production by B cells involves their activation upon encountering antigens, leading to differentiation into plasma cells that secrete antibodies capable of binding to the antigens. In contrast to direct engagement with pathogens,
B cells do not produce antigens or directly attack them; instead, they mark the pathogens for destruction by other immune cells.