protilátkách
Protilátky, also known as antibodies, are proteins produced by the immune system to identify and neutralize foreign objects, such as bacteria, viruses, and toxins, that enter the body. They are a crucial component of the adaptive immune response, which is responsible for providing long-term immunity against specific pathogens. Protilátky are produced by a type of white blood cell called B cells, which are activated by antigens, which are foreign substances that trigger an immune response. Once activated, B cells differentiate into plasma cells, which then produce protilátky. These antibodies can be further classified into five main types based on their structure and function: IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG, and IgM. Each type of antibody plays a specific role in the immune response, such as neutralizing toxins, activating complement proteins, or facilitating phagocytosis. Protilátky circulate in the bloodstream and lymph, and their concentration can be measured to diagnose infections, monitor disease progression, or assess the effectiveness of vaccines. They are also used in medical treatments, such as passive immunization, where antibodies are administered to provide immediate protection against a specific pathogen.