How do antibodies function in the immune system?

Antibodies play a crucial role in the immune system primarily by binding to specific antigens found on pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. This binding action has several important effects. Firstly, it neutralizes pathogens by obstructing their ability to infect host cells or perform their harmful functions. Secondly, the bound antibodies mark these pathogens for destruction by other components of the immune system, such as phagocytic cells, which recognize the antibody-antigen complexes and proceed to eliminate them.

This multifunctional capability of antibodies is central to the adaptive immune response, as they not only target and neutralize pathogens but also facilitate their clearance through interactions with other immune cells. This makes their ability to bind to antigens and mark them for destruction a fundamental aspect of how the immune system protects the body against infections.