What are B Cells?
B cells or lymphocytes are in charge of producing antibodies and providing humoral immunity. They make up 25% of all lymphocytes. They release cytokines that draw in additional immune cells. In reaction to the antigens, these cells develop in the bone marrow and create antibodies. B cells create memory B cells and plasma cells when they come into contact with antigens.
Antibody production occurs in plasma B cells, referred to as effector cells. Specialized cells called plasma cells make protective proteins and release them into the blood. If the same virus or bacterium re-infects a person, memory B cells can promptly eliminate the antigens since they have a lengthy lifespan. The antibody molecules might stay free or bind to a cell membrane. Therefore, B cells create antibodies or immunoglobulins (Ig) that are targeted at the pathogens that have infiltrated the body. The bone marrow produces new B-lymphocytes every few days since they have a short lifespan.
B Cells Functions
Some of the functions performed by B cells are discussed below:
- Antibody production: B cells are primarily responsible for producing antibodies.
- Antigen presentation: B cells can also present antigens to T cells, initiating immune responses and promoting coordination between different immune cells.
- Memory cell formation: B cells can differentiate into memory B cells after encountering antigens, providing long-lasting immunity upon re-exposure to the same pathogen.
- Regulation of immune responses: They can modulate immune responses by releasing cytokines and interacting with other immune cells, contributing to the regulation of inflammation and immune tolerance.
Difference Between T Cells And B Cells
The difference between T cells and B cells is that the lymphocytes that remain in the bone marrow for differentiation are known as “B-cells,”. In contrast, the lymphocytes that migrate to the thymus are “T-cells.” Their mode of action against fighting pathogens is different. For example- when any pathogen enters the body, T cells recognize it, stimulate different T cells and start making clones. This is how they increase their number and fight against pathogens.
However, the B cells, are first activated by T cells, and they also start multiplying and creating copies of memory B cells and plasma cells that migrate to the infection site (lymph). If the same virus or bacterium re-infects a person, memory B cells can promptly eliminate the antigens.
Difference Between B and T Cells
Table of Content
- What are B Cells?
- What are T Cells?
- Difference Between B-Cells and T-Cells
- Similarities Between B cells and T cells
- Conclusion: Difference Between T Cells And B Cells
- Difference Between Related Links
- FAQs on Difference Between T Cells and B Cells