Final answer:
T cell-dependent B cell activation is a multi-step process essential for adaptive immunity. B cells must first engage with an antigen, present it, encounter a helper T cell, receive cytokine signals, and then differentiate into antibody-producing plasma cells. Antibody class switching allows B cells to produce different types of antibodies to better combat various pathogens.
Step-by-step explanation:
B Cell and T Cell Responses
The process of T cell-dependent activation of B cells is crucial for adaptive immunity and occurs in a series of steps:
- A B cell encounters and engulfs a matching antigen.
- The B cell processes and presents fragments of the antigen on its surface.
- A helper T cell binds to the B cell at the antigen site.
- Cytokines are released by the helper T cell, signalling the B cell.
- The signalled B cell develops into a plasma cell capable of producing antibodies.
Antibody class switching is a process where a B cell changes the class of antibody it produces. This is important for the immune system to adapt and effectively combat different types of pathogens. Plasma cells derived from B cells secrete antibodies that are specific to the antigens they have encountered.
Effective immune responses rely on the collaboration between B cells and T cells where the adaptive immune system is instrumental in identifying and eliminating specific pathogens.