What type of cells do B cells produce when triggered?

Prepare for Texas AandM BIOL206 Microbiology Exam with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question includes hints and detailed explanations to enhance your understanding. Gear up for your test with our comprehensive resources!

When B cells are triggered by the presence of an antigen, they primarily differentiate into plasma cells. Plasma cells are specialized cells responsible for producing antibodies that can target specific antigens, marking them for destruction or neutralization. This ability to produce large quantities of antibodies is crucial for the adaptive immune response, as it helps the body to effectively combat pathogens.

In addition to plasma cells, some B cells can also develop into memory cells after activation. Memory B cells are important for the immune system's ability to recognize and respond more rapidly to future exposures to the same antigen. However, the immediate and primary outcome of B cell activation is the production of plasma cells, making this the correct answer for the question regarding what type of cells B cells produce when triggered.

The other cell types listed, such as helper T cells and regulatory T cells, are derived from T cell lineages and are not products of B cell activation. Therefore, they don't directly relate to the functionality of B cells in the adaptive immune response.

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