What are antibodies?

Antibodies are indeed large Y-shaped proteins produced by plasma cells, which are a type of white blood cell. They play a vital role in the immune system by identifying and neutralizing foreign objects such as bacteria and viruses. The structure of antibodies allows them to bind specifically to antigens, which are unique molecules found on the surface of these pathogens. This binding can directly inhibit the pathogen's function or mark it for destruction by other immune cells.

The production of antibodies is a critical aspect of the adaptive immune response, which is tailored to recognize specific pathogens that the body has encountered. Once produced, these antibodies provide long-lasting immunity, as some remain in the body to rapidly respond to subsequent infections by the same pathogen.

This understanding highlights the unique role of antibodies in immune defense, distinguishing them from enzymes, hormones, and energy-providing molecules, which fulfill different biological functions in the body.