B-cell development involves distinct antigen-independent and antigen-dependent stages. Immature B-cells in the bone marrow undergo negative selection where cross-linking of membrane immunoglobulin can trigger apoptosis. Positively selected B-cells migrate to peripheral lymph nodes. Activation requires interaction between B-cells and T-helper cells through antigen presentation and co-stimulatory signaling like CD40/CD40L. Cytokines secreted by T-cells determine the immunoglobulin isotypes produced. The secondary immune response is more robust than the primary response due to increased numbers of memory B-cells with higher affinity antibodies that require less stimulation to activate.