Question

Function for antibodies

Answer 1

Antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins, are proteins produced by the immune system in response to the presence of foreign substances (antigens) in the body. They play a crucial role in the immune response by identifying and neutralizing these antigens. The function of antibodies can be summarized as follows:

1. Recognition: Antibodies have specific binding sites that allow them to recognize and bind to a particular antigen. This binding occurs through complementary interactions between the antibody and antigen.

2. Neutralization: Once bound to an antigen, antibodies can prevent the antigens from interacting with or causing harm to host cells. By "neutralizing" the antigens, antibodies render them ineffective or less harmful.

3. Opsonization: Antibodies can also act as opsonins, which means they make the antigens more recognizable to phagocytes (immune cells that engulf and destroy foreign substances). This process enhances the immune response against the invaders.

4. Activation of complement system: Antibodies can activate the complement system, which consists of a group of proteins that help in the destruction of pathogens. Complement activation leads to the formation of membrane attack complexes, causing cell lysis and destruction of the pathogens.

5. Antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity: Antibodies can recruit immune cells, such as natural killer (NK) cells and macrophages, to destroy cells that are infected with pathogens or abnormal cells, like cancer cells. The antibodies bind to the target cells, and the immune cells recognize and kill them.

Overall, antibodies play a crucial role in the adaptive immune response by targeting and eliminating foreign substances, thus protecting the body from infections and diseases.