Antibody response induction

Antibody response induction is the process by which the immune system detects an antigen (such as a pathogen, vaccine, or therapeutic biologic) and activates B cells to produce antigen-specific antibodies. This involves either T cell-dependent or T cell-independent pathways that result in the proliferation of antibody-secreting plasma cells, isotype switching, and often the generation of memory B cells. The process underpins humoral immunity and is essential for protection against infections and the action of many vaccines and therapeutic antibodies. However, undesirable antibody responses (immunogenicity) to biologics can reduce efficacy and pose safety risks, including hypersensitivity and immune complex diseases. This process is not a specific molecular target but rather a key phenomenon manipulated in vaccine and immunotherapy development.

Other names

Antibody inductionAntibody productionHumoral immune response