Which B lymphocytes transform into cells that produce antibody molecules?

The correct answer, which identifies the type of B lymphocytes that transform into cells producing antibody molecules, is plasma cells. When B lymphocytes encounter an antigen for the first time, they undergo a process of activation and differentiation. Some of these activated B cells become plasma cells, which are the effector cells that secrete large volumes of antibodies, specifically tailored to bind to the antigen that initiated their activation.

Plasma cells are characterized by an extensive rough endoplasmic reticulum, which is essential for the synthesis and secretion of antibodies. Once these antibodies are produced, they play a crucial role in marking pathogens for destruction and facilitating their elimination from the body.

The other options represent different aspects of the immune response. B cells are the initial immune cells capable of recognizing antigens, but they do not secrete antibodies until they differentiate into plasma cells. Memory cells are generated during the immune response and provide long-lasting immunity by remembering past infections, but they do not produce antibodies themselves until they further differentiate upon re-exposure to the same antigen. T cells, specifically helper T cells, play a supportive role in enhancing B cell responses but are not involved in antibody production. This differentiation of roles highlights why plasma cells are the correct answer to the question regarding the production