B-cell
B-cell
B-cells (pronounced: /biː sɛlz/), also known as B lymphocytes, are a type of white blood cell that plays a significant role in the immune system's response to infections.
Etymology
The term "B-cell" originates from the organ where they were first discovered and where they mature in birds, the bursa of Fabricius. In mammals, including humans, B-cells mature in the bone marrow, which coincidentally also starts with a "B".
Function
B-cells are responsible for producing antibodies that can recognize and bind to specific antigens on the surface of invading pathogens. This binding process triggers other immune cells to destroy the pathogen. B-cells also play a role in the adaptive immune response, as some B-cells can remember the specific antigens of a pathogen and respond more quickly if the same pathogen is encountered again.
Related Terms
- Antibody: A protein produced by B-cells that can recognize and bind to specific antigens on the surface of pathogens.
- Antigen: A substance that triggers an immune response, especially the production of antibodies.
- Immune System: The body's defense against infectious organisms and other invaders.
- Adaptive Immune Response: The immune system's method of fighting off pathogens it has encountered before.
- Bone Marrow: The spongy tissue inside some bones, such as the hip and thigh bones, that contains immature cells, called stem cells.
- Bursa of Fabricius: An organ in birds where B-cells mature.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on B-cell
- Wikipedia's article - B-cell
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