What do helper T cells stimulate in the immune response?

Helper T cells play a crucial role in the immune response, particularly in activating and regulating the function of other immune cells. One of their primary functions is to stimulate B cells, which are responsible for producing antibodies. When helper T cells recognize antigens presented by antigen-presenting cells, they provide necessary signals, such as cytokines, that promote B cell activation, differentiation, and proliferation. This interaction is essential for the adaptive immune response, as it leads to the production of antibodies that specifically target pathogens.

While the other components of the immune response are connected to helper T cells, such as the stimulation of T cells and the destruction of pathogens, their most direct and specific role is influencing B cell function. The stimulation of B cells is fundamental for the humoral immunity aspect, which deals with the production of antibodies that neutralize toxins and pathogens in the blood and lymphatic system.