What type of proteins are produced by the immune system and used to bind to and neutralize foreign particles?

The immune system produces antibodies, which are proteins specifically designed to identify and bind to foreign particles, such as pathogens (bacteria, viruses, toxins). These proteins play a central role in the immune response by recognizing antigens, the distinct molecules found on the surface of these invaders.

Once an antibody binds to its target antigen, it can neutralize the foreign particle directly or mark it for destruction by other components of the immune system. This process is crucial for the body's defense against infections and helps to prevent disease.

Interferons are proteins that have a role in the immune response but primarily act by signaling neighboring cells to increase their defenses against viral infections, rather than directly binding to and neutralizing pathogens. Hormones are signaling molecules that regulate various physiological processes in the body but are not directly involved in immune responses. Enzymes are biological catalysts that accelerate chemical reactions in the body, but they do not have a specific role in binding to foreign particles like antibodies do.