In the immune system, which type of cell is primarily responsible for producing antibodies?

B-lymphocytes, commonly referred to as B cells, are the primary cells responsible for the production of antibodies in the immune system. When B cells encounter an antigen that matches their specific receptor, they become activated and differentiate into plasma cells. These plasma cells then synthesize and secrete large quantities of antibodies, which bind to the antigens and help neutralize pathogens like bacteria and viruses.

Antibodies play a crucial role in the immune response by marking invaders for destruction and preventing them from infecting host cells. B cells also contribute to the development of immunological memory, enabling the body to respond more effectively to subsequent exposures to the same pathogen.

In contrast, T-lymphocytes are primarily involved in cell-mediated immunity, where they help recognize and kill infected host cells or assist other immune cells but do not produce antibodies. Macrophages are important for phagocytosing pathogens and presenting antigens to T cells, while dendritic cells are specialized antigen-presenting cells that activate T cells but are not involved in antibody production.