What are antibodies?
Answer
Antibodies are special proteins produced by the immune system to identify and neutralize harmful substances like bacteria, viruses, and toxins.
Key Points:
- They are made by white blood cells (B lymphocytes)
- Each antibody is specific to a particular pathogen (germ)
- They bind to invaders called antigens (foreign substances)
What do they do?
- Mark pathogens for destruction
- Block viruses or toxins from harming cells
- Help other immune cells recognize and destroy invaders
Antibodies are the body’s defense tools that recognize and fight specific infections.