Plazmacellák

Plazmacellák, also known as plasma cells or effector B cells, are a type of white blood cell that originate from B lymphocytes. They are a crucial component of the adaptive immune system, specifically responsible for the production and secretion of antibodies. When a B cell encounters an antigen, it can become activated and differentiate into a plasma cell. This differentiation process involves significant changes in cellular morphology and function.

Plasma cells are characterized by their abundant cytoplasm filled with rough endoplasmic reticulum, which is the cellular machinery responsible for protein synthesis and export. This abundance of endoplasmic reticulum reflects their primary role: synthesizing and secreting large quantities of specific antibodies. These antibodies are proteins that bind to specific antigens, marking them for destruction by other immune cells or neutralizing their harmful effects.

Each plasma cell is generally committed to producing only one specific type of antibody, targeting a particular antigen. This specificity is a hallmark of the adaptive immune response. Plasma cells can be found in various locations within the body, including bone marrow, lymph nodes, spleen, and mucosal tissues. Some plasma cells are short-lived, while others can persist for extended periods, providing long-term immunity against previously encountered pathogens. The presence and activity of plasma cells are essential for developing effective humoral immunity.