Which cell type is primarily responsible for antibody production?

Plasma cells are specialized B cells that are primarily responsible for the production and secretion of antibodies in response to specific antigens. When B cells encounter an antigen that matches their specific receptor, they undergo clonal expansion and differentiate into plasma cells. These plasma cells then produce large quantities of antibodies that are released into the bloodstream, where they help neutralize pathogens and mark them for destruction by other immune cells.

The role of plasma cells is critical in the adaptive immune response, as the antibodies they produce have the ability to specifically target and bind to antigens, aiding in the identification and elimination of foreign invaders. This process is a key component of how the body develops immunity.

Other cell types mentioned have different functions in the immune system. T cells are primarily involved in cell-mediated immunity and help regulate immune responses but do not produce antibodies. Macrophages are important for phagocytosis and presenting antigens to T cells, while dendritic cells play a crucial role in antigen presentation and activating T cells, but neither of these cell types directly produces antibodies.