Difference Between T Cells And B Cells

B cells and T cells are the white blood cells of the immune system that are responsible for adaptive immune response in an organism. Both the cells are made in the bone marrow. B cells mature in the bone marrow while the T cells travel to the thymus and mature there. These cells are structurally similar and are involved in adaptive immune response in an organism.

Also Read: Antigens and Immunology

Let us know the difference between B cells and T cells in detail.

T Cells vs B Cells

B Cells T Cells
Origin
Bone marrow Thymus
Often called
B lymphocytes T lymphocytes
Position
Outside lymph node Inside lymph node
Surface antibodies
Present Absent
Connect
They connect to the surface of invading bacteria and virus
They connect only to the virus antigen on the outside
Membrane receptor for antigen
BCR TCR
Life Span
Short Long
Secrete
Antibodies Lymphokines
Types
Only one active type
Two types: Helper and Killer

What are B cells?

These cells mature in the bone marrow and produce antibodies in response to the antigens. B cells are involved in humoral response. As soon as B cells come across the antigens, they produce plasma cells and memory B cells.

What are T cells?

T cells originate in the bone marow and mature in the thymus. These can be further divided into T helper cells and T cytotoxic cells. They are responsible for removing the pathogens from the body. As soon as the foreign antigen enters the cells, T cells trigger the B cells to develop plasma cells and activates T killer cells that kill the cells affected by the invaders.

Similarities between B cells and T cells

  1. Both B and T cells originate in the bone marrow.
  2. These cells are involved in adaptive immunity.
  3. They are a type of lymphocytes.
  4. The cells are nucleated and motile.
  5. Both protect the body’s immune system and help fighting infections.
  6. Both the cells are non-phagocytic and are a part of lymphatic system.

Also Read: Immunity

These were some of the major difference between B cells and T cells. To know more about the origin and functions  of B cells and T cells, register to BYJU’S.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1

Where are B and T cells located?

The B and T cells originate in the bone marrow and mature in the bone marrow and thymus respectively.

Q2

How do the T cells activate?

The T helper cells are activated when they are presented with the antigens by the MHC Class II molecules that are expressed on the surface of antigen presenting cells.

Questionnaire Of The Day!

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  1. Good information.