What is a primary characteristic of plasma cells?

Plasma cells are a crucial part of the immune system that originate from B cells upon activation. Their primary characteristic is their specialization in producing antibodies. When B cells encounter an antigen, they can differentiate into plasma cells, which then secrete large amounts of antibodies specific to that antigen. These antibodies play a vital role in identifying and neutralizing pathogens such as bacteria and viruses, thereby providing the body with an effective defense mechanism.

In addition to antibody production, plasma cells have a distinctive morphology that includes a large amount of rough endoplasmic reticulum, which is indicative of their role in synthesizing proteins, like antibodies. This specialization is essential for the adaptive immune response, as it allows for a coordinated and specific attack against pathogens.