Which statement best describes the primary function of antibodies in humoral immunity?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $25.99Unlock all

Prepare thoroughly for the Infection and Response Test. Use detailed flashcards, targeted questions, and expert explanations. This interactive quiz is perfect to help you succeed and gain confidence in your ability.

Multiple Choice

Which statement best describes the primary function of antibodies in humoral immunity?

Explanation:
In humoral immunity, antibodies act as soluble tags that recognize antigens on pathogens or toxins, neutralizing them and marking them for destruction. They can block a pathogen or toxin from entering cells, coat invaders to make them easier for phagocytes to ingest (opsonization), and activate the complement system to enhance clearance. They don’t directly kill infected cells or produce cytokines themselves, and they aren’t involved in inhibiting clotting factors. This combination—identification, neutralization, and promotion of phagocytosis—best describes their primary function.

In humoral immunity, antibodies act as soluble tags that recognize antigens on pathogens or toxins, neutralizing them and marking them for destruction. They can block a pathogen or toxin from entering cells, coat invaders to make them easier for phagocytes to ingest (opsonization), and activate the complement system to enhance clearance. They don’t directly kill infected cells or produce cytokines themselves, and they aren’t involved in inhibiting clotting factors. This combination—identification, neutralization, and promotion of phagocytosis—best describes their primary function.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy