What is the function of antibodies in the immune response?

The function of antibodies in the immune response is primarily to bind to specific antigens, which are foreign molecules typically found on the surface of pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. This binding serves two significant roles. First, it can neutralize the pathogen, preventing it from interacting with host cells and causing harm. Second, it marks the pathogen for destruction by other components of the immune system, such as phagocytes and the complement system. This targeting process is crucial for an effective immune response, as it ensures that immune cells can identify and eliminate threats efficiently.

Antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins, are produced by B cells in response to the detection of antigens, which are unique to each pathogen. This specificity is key to the adaptive immune response, allowing for a tailored defense against various infections.

The other options, while related to the immune response, do not accurately capture the specific role of antibodies. For instance, producing more white blood cells is part of the immune system's overall response but is not specifically the function of antibodies. Generating inflammation is a part of the body's response to infection that involves various immune cells and signaling molecules, but this process is distinct from the direct actions of antibodies. Lastly, while signaling the presence of