This deep dive covers B Lymphocytes and Antibody Production within Adaptive Immunity and Antibodies for GCSE Biology. Specific immune responses, antibody production, lymphocytes, memory cells It is section 3 of 15 in this topic. Use this deep dive to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
B Lymphocytes and Antibody Production
B lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell that produces antibodies. Each B cell has surface receptors that recognise one specific antigen shape — like a lock that only one key can open.
The B lymphocyte response:
- Recognition: A B cell whose receptor shape matches the antigen binds to it
- Activation: The B cell becomes activated and divides rapidly (clonal expansion)
- Plasma cells: Most daughter cells become plasma cells — antibody factories that release thousands of antibodies per second
- Memory B cells: Some daughter cells become long-lived memory B cells that remain in the body for years
Practice questions for Adaptive Immunity and Antibodies
What are antigens?
Explain how lymphocytes produce antibodies to destroy a specific pathogen.
Quick recall flashcards
What is an antigen?
A protein on the surface of a pathogen (or cell) that the immune system recognises as foreign.
Antigens trigger the body to produce antibodies.
What is an antibody?
A protein produced by lymphocytes (white blood cells) that binds to a specific antigen.
Each antibody has a unique shape that fits one antigen only — like a lock and key.