Question

Differentiate between antibodies and interferons.

Answer 1

Aspect	Antibodies	Interferons
Production	Antibodies are produced by B-lymphocytes (Plasma cells) in response to specific antigens.	Interferons are produced by virus-infected cells to protect the neighboring healthy cells.
Chemical Nature	They are specialized proteins known as Immunoglobulins.	They are antiviral proteins that belong to a group called Cytokines.
Main Role	They bind to antigens, neutralize toxins, and help in destroying pathogens.	They inhibit viral replication and induce an antiviral state in surrounding cells.
Immunity Type	They are a key part of the Adaptive (Acquired) immunity.	They are a part of the Innate immunity (specifically Cytokine barriers).
Specificity	They are highly specific; one antibody works against only one specific antigen.	They are non-specific and can act against a broad range of different viruses.
Response Speed	Their production and action are relatively slow during the first exposure.	They provide a rapid and immediate response to a viral infection.