Final answer:
The statement that macrophages are phagocytes and plasma cells produce antibodies is true. Antibodies are produced by plasma cells, which is a function distinct from the phagocytic activity of macrophages. The role of macrophages extends to engulfing pathogens and promoting inflammation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Macrophages are indeed phagocytes, which means they have the ability to engulf and digest cellular debris and pathogens. On the other hand, plasma cells, which are a type of lymphocyte, are responsible for the production of antibodies. Each plasma cell can produce a large number of antibodies, which are specific to the antigen they have encountered. This makes the statement given in the question true.
The subject of antibodies is directly addressed by the immune system. Specifically, antibodies are produced by plasma cells, not T cells, bone marrow, or macrophages. When it comes to the adaptive immune response, cellular adaptive immunity is primarily carried out by T cells, which differentiate into various types like cytotoxic T cells and helper T cells, each with a specific role in fighting pathogens.
Referring to review questions, a macrophage is the correct answer to which of the following cells is phagocytic. Plasma B cells, B cells, and NK cells do not have phagocytic capabilities. It should be noted that while B cells can differentiate into plasma cells, it is these plasma cells which produce antibodies, and B cells do not directly engulf pathogens. Furthermore, macrophages are the immune system cell type that can phagocytize pathogens and produce chemicals that promote inflammation.