What type of response is mediated by antibodies produced by B-cells?

The response mediated by antibodies produced by B-cells is known as the humoral response. This immune response involves the production of antibodies (also called immunoglobulins) that are secreted into the bloodstream and lymphatic system, where they can specifically bind to pathogens such as bacteria and viruses.

When a B-cell encounters an antigen—substances that the immune system recognizes as foreign—it can differentiate into plasma cells that produce large quantities of antibodies. These antibodies can neutralize pathogens, mark them for destruction by other immune cells, or prevent their ability to infect host cells. The effectiveness of the humoral response is critical for the body's ability to eliminate extracellular pathogens.

In contrast, other types of responses, such as cell-mediated response, primarily involve T-cells and the direct destruction of infected cells rather than the secretion of antibodies. The inflammatory response is a broader reaction that includes various immune system components to address injury or infection but does not specifically describe the action of B-cells. Lastly, the innate response refers to the body's first line of defense, utilizing non-specific mechanisms to combat pathogens, which is distinct from the adaptive mechanisms involving antibodies and B-cells.