Antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins, are protein molecules produced by the immune system to defend the body against harmful pathogens. These Y-shaped proteins specifically recognize and neutralize antigens, including viruses and bacteria, preventing infections.

Diverse types of antibodies—IgG, IgM, IgA, IgD, and IgE—exist, each with distinct roles in immune responses. Antibodies facilitate the destruction or removal of pathogens by binding to antigens, marking them for phagocytosis or rendering them inactive. This adaptive immune system mechanism provides both immediate and long-term protection against infections.

Antibodies are central to vaccination, as they form the basis of acquired immunity. Understanding their structure and function is integral to developing therapeutic interventions and advancing medical science. The intricate dance between antibodies and antigens underscores the complexity and effectiveness of the immune system’s defense mechanisms.