The immune cells that produce antibodies are which cells?

• A. T lymphocytes
• B. B lymphocytes
• C. Macrophages
• D. Dendritic cells

Answer: (B)

Antibody production is carried out by B lymphocytes. In humoral immunity, B cells recognize specific antigens and, with help from helper T cells, become activated and differentiate into plasma cells. These plasma cells secrete antibodies into the blood and other body fluids, where the antibodies can neutralize pathogens, neutralize toxins, or mark invaders for attack by other parts of the immune system. The other cells mentioned have different roles: T lymphocytes drive cell-mediated responses and do not produce antibodies; macrophages and dendritic cells are antigen-presenting cells that engulf pathogens and activate T cells, rather than secreting antibodies.