What is the role of antibodies in the immune response?

Antibodies play a crucial role in the immune response by specifically binding to foreign particles, such as pathogens (bacteria and viruses) or toxins. This binding process helps neutralize these harmful invaders, preventing them from infecting or damaging cells. Once bound, antibodies can also mark these foreign particles for destruction by other components of the immune system, such as phagocytes. This mechanism is fundamental to the adaptive immune response, allowing the body to recognize and respond more effectively to previously encountered pathogens.

The other choices do not accurately describe the function of antibodies. While enhancing blood flow to an infection site is important for immune response, it is primarily mediated by other mechanisms, such as the action of histamines and other inflammatory mediators. Destroying native cells is associated with cytotoxic T-cells rather than antibodies, as antibodies focus on foreign invaders. Speeding up cellular recovery does not reflect the specific role of antibodies, which are dedicated to targeting and neutralizing foreign substances rather than promoting recovery processes within the body.