Which type of cells are involved in the immune response?

The immune response is primarily conducted by white blood cells, which play a critical role in defending the body against infections and foreign invaders. These cells, also known as leukocytes, are involved in various functions such as identifying pathogens, producing antibodies, and facilitating the inflammatory response. They can be further categorized into different types, including lymphocytes (T cells and B cells), neutrophils, monocytes, and others, each contributing uniquely to the immune system.

In contrast, red blood cells are primarily responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body and do not play a role in the immune response. Platelets are involved in blood clotting and wound healing, while plasma cells, derived from B cells, are specifically responsible for producing antibodies but are just one component of the broader category of white blood cells. Therefore, while plasma cells contribute to the immune defense, it is white blood cells as a whole that encompass the entire immune response system.