Which antibody function is primarily associated with blocking viral infections?

Which antibody function is primarily associated with blocking viral infections?

• A. Activation of phagocytes
• B. Neutralization of antigens
• C. Induction of cytotoxicity
• D. Complement activation

Answer: (B)

The correct answer, neutralization of antigens, refers to a crucial function of antibodies, particularly in the context of viral infections. When a virus enters the body, it needs to attach to host cells to infect them. Antibodies, particularly those of the IgG and IgA isotypes, can bind to viral particles and block their attachment to host cells. This binding effectively neutralizes the virus, preventing it from entering the cells and causing infection.

The neutralization process also aids other immune responses by marking the virus for destruction and limiting its ability to replicate and spread. This function of antibodies is vital for controlling viral infections and is a fundamental aspect of the adaptive immune response.

In contrast, the other functions, such as activation of phagocytes or induction of cytotoxicity, typically involve other immune processes and do not specifically target the prevention of viral entry into cells as effectively as neutralization does. Similarly, complement activation plays a role in enhancing the immune response but does not directly block the initial interaction between viruses and host cells.