What type of cells do B-lymphocytes turn into after an immune response?

B-lymphocytes, or B-cells, play a crucial role in the adaptive immune response. After being activated by an antigen, they can differentiate into two primary types of cells: antibody-secreting plasma cells and memory B-cells.

The antibody-secreting plasma cells are responsible for producing antibodies specific to the antigen that triggered the immune response. These antibodies circulate throughout the body, binding to pathogens and facilitating their destruction. Meanwhile, memory B-cells are essential for long-term immunity; they remain in the body and "remember" the specific antigens. This allows for a rapid and effective response if the same pathogen is encountered again in the future.

This transformation into either antibody-secreting cells or memory B-cells is fundamental for the effectiveness of the immune response, ensuring both immediate and long-term protection against pathogens.