What is produced in the body as a response to an infection?

When the body encounters an infection, the immune system responds by producing antibodies, which are specialized proteins designed to identify and neutralize pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. Antibodies are created by B lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) in response to antigens, which are specific molecules found on the surface of pathogens. This interaction is crucial in helping the body recognize and remember the invaders, providing long-term immunity and aiding in the defense against future infections.

In contrast, antigens are substances that trigger the immune response but are not produced by the body; they are components of the pathogens themselves. Pathogens refer to the microorganisms (e.g., bacteria, viruses, fungi) that cause disease, while viruses are a specific type of pathogen. Understanding this differentiation helps clarify why the focus is on antibody production as a direct response to an infection rather than the presence of antigens, pathogens, or viruses.