plasmocyte

A plasmocyte, also known as a plasma cell, is a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the adaptive immune system. These cells are specialized B lymphocytes that have differentiated and matured to produce and secrete large quantities of antibodies. Antibodies are proteins that are essential for identifying and neutralizing foreign objects like bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.

The differentiation of B lymphocytes into plasmocytes is a complex process triggered by the recognition of specific antigens. Once activated, B cells undergo proliferation and maturation, eventually transforming into plasmocytes. These cells are characterized by their abundant cytoplasm, which is rich in endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus, organelles responsible for protein synthesis and secretion.

Plasmocytes are typically found in the bone marrow, spleen, and lymph nodes, as well as in connective tissues, particularly at sites of chronic inflammation. They are terminally differentiated cells, meaning they generally do not divide and have a limited lifespan, though some can persist for long periods, providing a sustained antibody presence. The antibodies produced by plasmocytes circulate in the bloodstream and other bodily fluids, where they bind to antigens, marking them for destruction by other immune cells or neutralizing their harmful effects directly.