Antibody
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An antibody or immunoglobulin is a large Y-shaped protein used by the immune system to identify and neutralize foreign objects like bacteria and viruses.
Each antibody recognizes a specific antigen unique to its target. This is because at the two tips of its "Y", it has structures that act rather like locks. Every lock only has one key--in this case, its own antigen. When the key is inserted into the lock, the antibody attaches. When the antigen is on a microbe or an infected cell, this can "tag" the cell, marking it for attack by other parts of the immune system. Alternatively, it can directly neutralize its target (i.e. blocking a part of the microbe that is essential for its invasion and survival).
The production of antibodies is the main function of the humoral immune system.
The terms "antibody" and "immunoglobulin" are often used interchangeably. They are found in the blood and tissue fluids as well as many secretions. Structurally, they are globulins.
Antibodies are synthesized and secreted by plasma cells that are derived from the B cells of the immune system. B cells are activated when they bind to their specific antigen. This causes them to differentiate into plasma cells. In some cases, the interaction of the B cell with a T helper cell is also necessary.
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