Washington Master Esthetics Practice Exam

Which type of cells help in the immune response by producing antibodies?

1. Neutrophils

2. Plasma cells

3. Natural killer cells

4. Dendritic cells

The correct answer is: Plasma cells

Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell that play a crucial role in the immune response by producing antibodies, which are proteins that specifically target and neutralize pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. When an antigen, which is any substance that can provoke an immune response, is recognized by the immune system, B cells are activated. These B cells then differentiate into plasma cells, which arrange themselves to produce large quantities of antibodies that are secreted into the bloodstream. This process is fundamental for adaptive immunity, as it allows the body to remember and respond more effectively to previously encountered pathogens. The other types of cells mentioned have different roles in the immune response. Neutrophils are primarily involved in the innate immune response, acting as the first line of defense against infections but do not produce antibodies. Natural killer cells are also part of the innate immune system and are primarily involved in the destruction of infected or cancerous cells rather than antibody production. Dendritic cells serve as antigen-presenting cells that help activate T cells, playing a critical role in initiating the adaptive immune response, but they do not produce antibodies themselves. Thus, plasma cells are distinctly recognized for their role in antibody production in the immune response.