B Lymphocytes
B lymphocytes, often known as B cells, are a type of white blood cell (WBCs). In essence, B cells fall under the WBC subgroup of lymphocytes. B cells are essential for the adaptive immune system because they secrete antibodies, according to Murphy (2012). The author also asserts that B cells release cytokines and introduce antigens (Murphy, 2012). B cell maturation takes place in the bone marrow of mammals (Cooper, 2015). Nevertheless, B cells are unique when compared to the other two types of lymphocytes. Intrinsically, B lymphocytes have the capability to manifest B cell receptors (BCRs) on their membranes (Murphy, 2012). BCRs are crucial in that they allow binding to specific antigens before initiation of an antibody reaction. The discussions in this paper set to discuss why B cells are found in large aggregates briefly.
The Humoral Function of B Cells
As discussed in the introduction, the humoral function of B cells is fundamental to the adaptive immune system. This feature is crucial in keeping infections at bay. Alberts et al. (2002) assert that vertebrates would succumb to disease if they did not produce enough antibodies. It is important to highlight that antibodies are secreted exclusively by B cells. While antibodies are generated in billions, their forms also differ (Alberts, et al., 2002). Each antibody has a unique sequence of amino acids with the specific antigen-binding site. As such, B cells will form aggregates as a result of autoimmune diseases. According to Heller et al. (2007), this accumulation of B lymphocytes may be mediated by chemokines, specifically CXCL13.
Conclusion
B cells play a crucial part in the adaptive immune system. Production of antibodies is their fundamental function, ensuring the body fights off infections. Nonetheless, the paper has outlined a brief description of why B cells are found in aggregates. This phenomenon has been associated with the chemokine CXCL13.
Bibliography
Alberts, B. et al., 2002. Molecular Biology of the Cell. 4th ed. New York, NY: Garland Science.
Cooper, M. D., 2015. The early history of B cells. Nature Reviews Immunology, 15(3), pp. 191-197.
Heller, F. et al., 2007. The Contribution of B Cells to Renal Interstitial Inflammation. The American Journal of Pathology, 170(2), pp. 457-468.
Murphy, K., 2012. Janeway’s Immunobiology. 8th ed. New York, NY: Garland Science.
