The blood cell that can become an antibody-secreting cell is:
a. Lymphocyte
b. Megakaryocyte
c. Neutrophil
d. Basophil

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the function of each blood cell type listed in the options.
2. Step 2: Recall that lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell involved in the adaptive immune response, with some differentiating into plasma cells that secrete antibodies.
3. Step 3: Recognize that megakaryocytes are large bone marrow cells responsible for producing platelets, not antibodies.
4. Step 4: Know that neutrophils are white blood cells primarily involved in phagocytosis and innate immunity, not antibody production.
5. Step 5: Understand that basophils are involved in inflammatory responses and release histamine, but do not produce antibodies.

Key Concepts

Lymphocytes

Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell essential for the adaptive immune response. They include B cells and T cells, where B cells can differentiate into plasma cells that produce antibodies to neutralize pathogens.

Antibody-Secreting Cells (Plasma Cells)

Plasma cells are the mature form of B lymphocytes that actively secrete antibodies. These antibodies specifically target antigens, helping the immune system identify and eliminate foreign invaders.

Other Blood Cells (Megakaryocytes, Neutrophils, Basophils)

Megakaryocytes produce platelets for blood clotting, neutrophils are phagocytic cells that engulf pathogens, and basophils release histamine during allergic responses. None of these cells produce antibodies.