B cells
Short description
B cells are the only cells of the immune system capable of producing antibodies.
Synonyms
B lymphocytes
Detailed description
B cells are white blood cells. Together with T cells, they account for the adaptive component of the immune system, meaning the part that can adjust to new pathogens. When B cells become activated by foreign antigens, they differentiate into antibody-producing plasma cells and memory cells, which can prevent disease upon subsequent contact with the same antigen.