Final answer:
Mature B cells, known as plasma cells, are the antibody factories of the body, secreting large amounts of antibodies as part of the humoral immune response.
Step-by-step explanation:
The antibody factories in the body are the mature versions of B cells, specifically the differentiated form known as plasma cells. Plasma cells are considered the antibody factories because they have the distinct role of secreting large quantities of antibodies after they are activated.
Upon activation by an antigen, B cells rapidly proliferate and a clone of cells differentiate into plasma cells, which then produce antibodies tailored to the specific antigen that triggered the immune response. These antibodies function as agents of humoral immunity, traveling through the body to identify and neutralize pathogens.
When B cells mature in the bone marrow, they have the capability to produce glycoproteins called antibodies or immunoglobulins. This process is crucial for the body's defense against pathogens in the extracellular environment. Further, the antibody molecules, especially IgM and IgG, are pivotal in the body's humoral response to pathogens.