What immune response is initiated by B cells secreting antibodies?

• A. Innate response
• B. Cellular response
• C. Humoral response
• D. Aggressive response

Answer: (C)

The immune response initiated by B cells secreting antibodies is known as the humoral response. This response involves the activation and proliferation of B cells, which are a type of white blood cell that plays a critical role in the immune system. When B cells encounter an antigen, they differentiate into plasma cells that produce specific antibodies. These antibodies bind to antigens, neutralizing pathogens and marking them for destruction by other immune cells.

The humoral response is distinct from the innate and cellular responses. The innate response is the body's first line of defense, providing rapid, nonspecific protection against pathogens without the need for prior exposure. The cellular response, on the other hand, primarily involves T cells and is focused on the direct elimination of infected or abnormal cells rather than the production of antibodies.

Given this understanding, B cell activity and antibody secretion are central to the humoral response, highlighting its role in targeting pathogens present in body fluids.