What types of cells are produced after B cell activation by an antigen?

After B cell activation by an antigen, the primary outcome is the differentiation of B cells into two key types of cells: plasma cells and memory B cells.

Plasma cells are responsible for the production and secretion of antibodies specific to the encountered antigen. These antibodies play a crucial role in the immune response by neutralizing pathogens, marking them for destruction, and facilitating their removal by other immune cells. This immediate antibody-producing function is critical in the early stages of the immune response to effectively combat infections.

Memory B cells, on the other hand, persist long-term in the body and provide lasting immunity. They remain in a dormant state after the initial activation but are primed to respond more rapidly and effectively upon subsequent exposures to the same antigen. This quick response is what underlies the principle of immunological memory, which is the basis for the effectiveness of vaccines.

The other options do not accurately reflect the outcomes of B cell activation. Mature B cells refer to B cells that have reached full development but may not necessarily be activated or involved in producing an immune response. Antigen-dependent B cells and receptor-activated B cells are more general terms that do not specifically capture the distinct roles of plasma and memory B cells following activation. Thus, plasma cells and memory B