Abstract

Memory B cells are a crucial component of the adaptive immune system, playing a pivotal role in long-term immunity against pathogens. Unlike naïve B cells, which encounter antigens for the first time and undergo activation and differentiation into antibody-producing plasma cells, memory B cells are formed following an initial encounter with an antigen and persist in the body for extended periods. These cells possess unique characteristics that enable them to mount a faster and more robust immune response upon re-exposure to the same antigen. This accelerated response is facilitated by the ability of memory B cells to rapidly differentiate into antibody-secreting plasma cells and proliferate, thereby providing a swift and effective defense against recurring infections. Furthermore, memory B cells contribute to the efficacy of vaccination by maintaining immunological memory, ensuring long-lasting protection against specific pathogens. Understanding the role of memory B cells in long-term immunity is crucial for vaccine development, as well as for the design of therapeutic strategies aimed at enhancing immune responses against infectious diseases and malignancies.