IGCSE Biology glossary
Antibody
Biology editorial review is supported by the named review panel. Reviewer participation may vary by guide. Checked against Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 (2026–2028); last reviewed August 2026.
Definition
A protein produced by lymphocytes that binds to specific antigens on a pathogen, marking it for destruction or causing pathogens to clump together.
What to include in an exam answer
The specificity idea pays: each antibody is complementary to one antigen. In immunity questions, distinguish lymphocytes (produce antibodies) from phagocytes (engulf pathogens). Mixing them up is one of the most common dropped marks in the disease topic.
Example in context
Explaining immunity: 'Lymphocytes produce antibodies, proteins that are complementary to the antigens on the pathogen and bind to them, marking it for destruction.'
Related syllabus topic
Diseases & immunity