B cell

noun

Biology.

1. Also called B lymphocyte. a type of lymphocyte, developed in bone marrow, that circulates in the blood and lymph and, upon encountering a particular foreign antigen, differentiates into a clone of plasma cells that secrete a specific antibody and a clone of memory cells that make the antibody on subsequent encounters.

2. Also called beta cell. a cell in the islet of Langerhans that produces and secretes insulin.

B-cell

noun

1. another name for B-lymphocyte

B cell

1. Any of the lymphocytes that develop into plasma cells in the presence of a specific antigen. The plasma cells produce antibodies that attack or neutralize the antigen in what is called the humoral immune response. B cells mature in the bone marrow before being released into the blood.

2. Also called B lymphocyte

3. Compare T cell

B-cell

1. One of two main types of immune system lymphocytes (compare T-cell). B-cells originate and develop in the bone marrow and circulate throughout the blood and lymph fluids, recognizing foreign bacteria, viruses, and toxins and binding to them to facilitate their disposal by other cells.

Word History and Origins

Origin of B-cell¹

1970–75; B cell ( def. 1 ) perhaps B(one-derived) ; B cell ( def. 2 ) B(ursa of Langerhans-derived)

Example Sentences

Researchers from the University of Helsinki and HUS investigated the effects of recurring mutations in the KLHL6 gene in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, the most common cancer of the lymphatic system.

From Science Daily

The researchers found that the KLHL6 protein breaks down the B-cell receptor and demonstrated that certain mutations lead to an increase in the number of these receptors.

From Science Daily

Laboratory modelling revealed that the loss of KLHL6 in lymphoma cells increased the number of B-cell receptors manifold.

From Science Daily

"The similar results obtained with different study designs are a solid indication that KLHL6 protein disruption plays a key role in some B-cell diseases," Meriranta says.

From Science Daily

"The new findings open avenues to tailoring therapies, as the abnormal amount and activity of the B-cell receptor can be targeted pharmacologically. However, more research is still needed," Meriranta notes.

From Science Daily