To activate B cells, an _____ (labeled C)on a microbe binds to a(n)_____ (labeled A)on the surface of a specific population of B cells.
A)antigen; MHC protein
B)antigen; B cell antigen receptor
C)antibody; B cell antigen receptor
D)antibody; T cell antigen receptor
E)antigen; perforin

Question

To activate B cells, an _____ (labeled C)on a microbe binds to a(n)_____ (labeled A)on the surface of a specific population of B cells. 
A)antigen; MHC protein 
B)antigen; B cell antigen receptor 
C)antibody; B cell antigen receptor 
D)antibody; T cell antigen receptor 
E)antigen; perforin

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

B cells have B cell antigen receptors (BCRs) on their surface which can bind to specific antigens. When an antigen binds to the BCR, it activates the B cell and triggers its proliferation and differentiation into plasma cells that secrete antibodies. MHC proteins are involved in presenting antigens to T cells and perforin is a protein used by cytotoxic T cells to kill infected cells, so these choices are not involved in B cell activation. Antibodies are produced by B cells, so they cannot bind to B cell antigen receptors.

To Activate B Cells, an _____ (Labeled C)on a Microbe