Antistoffernes

Antistoffernes, also known as antibodies, are specialized proteins produced by the immune system in response to the presence of foreign substances, known as antigens. These antigens can include bacteria, viruses, toxins, and other pathogens, as well as substances from external sources like pollen, drugs, or transplanted tissues. The primary role of antibodies is to identify and neutralize these foreign invaders, helping to protect the body from infection and disease.

Antibodies are produced by a type of white blood cell called B lymphocytes (B cells). When an antigen enters the body, B cells recognize it and begin to proliferate, differentiating into plasma cells and memory cells. Plasma cells are responsible for producing large quantities of antibodies, while memory cells provide long-term immunity by "remembering" the antigen for faster response upon future exposures.

There are five main classes of antibodies, each with distinct functions and locations in the body: IgG, IgM, IgA, IgD, and IgE. IgG is the most abundant and provides long-term protection against infections. IgM is the first antibody produced in response to an infection and is effective at agglutinating pathogens. IgA is found in mucosal surfaces, such as the respiratory and digestive tracts, offering protection against pathogens entering through these routes. IgD plays a role in the activation of B cells, while IgE is involved in allergic reactions and defense against parasitic infections.

Antibodies work through various mechanisms, including neutralization of toxins, agglutination of pathogens, opsonization (marking pathogens for destruction by other immune cells), and activation of the complement system, a cascade of proteins that enhances the immune response. In medical diagnostics, antibodies are often used in tests such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Western blot to detect the presence of specific antigens or pathogens.

Additionally, antibodies can be artificially produced through processes like monoclonal antibody technology, which involves creating identical copies of a single antibody. These engineered antibodies are used in therapies for various diseases, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases.