Which immune response is indicated by the production of antibodies?

The production of antibodies is a key characteristic of adaptive immunity, which is the body's targeted and specific immune response to pathogens. Adaptive immunity is activated when the body encounters a foreign substance, known as an antigen, such as a virus or bacteria.

When the immune system identifies an antigen, it triggers B cells to differentiate into plasma cells that produce antibodies. These antibodies are specific to the antigen and help neutralize or eliminate pathogens. This response not only provides immediate protection but also leads to the development of memory cells that enable a quicker and more effective response upon future exposures to the same antigen.

Adaptive immunity contrasts with innate immunity, which is the body's first line of defense that responds more generally against all pathogens without the need for specific recognition. Passive immunity involves the transfer of antibodies from one individual to another, such as from mother to child, rather than the individual's own immune response generating them. An autoimmune response occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells, which is not related to the production of antibodies against foreign antigens.