What triggers the production of antibodies in response to infections?

The production of antibodies is primarily triggered by the binding of antigens to B cells. When an antigen—such as a protein found on the surface of a pathogen—enters the body, it is recognized by B cells that have specific receptors for that antigen. This binding activates the B cells, leading to their proliferation and differentiation into plasma cells, which are responsible for producing antibodies. These antibodies can then neutralize pathogens, mark them for destruction, or prevent their ability to infect cells.

Other processes, such as the activation of memory cells, play a vital role in long-term immunity and rapid responses to previously encountered pathogens but are not the initial trigger for antibody production. Exposure to allergens is related to allergic reactions rather than a direct response to infections. Recruitment of T cells involves a different aspect of the immune response, specifically cellular immunity, and while T cells can provide signals that help activate B cells, the direct trigger for antibody production comes from the initial binding of antigens to B cells.