Which immune cells are involved in the humoral immune response?

The humoral immune response primarily involves B cells, which are responsible for producing antibodies that target specific antigens, typically found on pathogens. When B cells encounter their specific antigen, they undergo activation and clonal expansion, differentiating into plasma cells that secrete large quantities of antibodies into the bloodstream. These antibodies play a crucial role in neutralizing pathogens and marking them for destruction by other immune cells.

T cells, while essential in cell-mediated immunity and in helping activate B cells, do not directly participate in the humoral response itself. The role of T cells, specifically helper T cells (CD4+), is to assist B cells in their activation by releasing cytokines, which facilitate B cell proliferation and differentiation. Therefore, while both B cells and T cells are critical to the overall adaptive immune response, the humoral component hinges primarily on the actions of B cells and their production of antibodies.

The other options do not accurately represent the cells that are primarily responsible for the humoral immune response, as granulocytes and macrophages are primarily involved in the innate immune response, while antigens and complement proteins are not cells but rather components that interact with the immune system. All blood cells encompass a broader range than just those involved in the humoral immune response,