Question

Which of the following correctly explains the role of antibiotics in the human body?

They break down damaging toxins created by bacteria.

They increase the number of white blood cells in the blood.

They rupture the cell wall or prevent protein synthesis in bacteria.

They reduce the effects of fever, swelling, and inflammation in the body.

Answer 1

A or B?

Answer 2

Antibodies are protein markers that tell white blood cells where to go/attack.

A certainly isn't correct, but B doesn't really make sense either, an elevated amount of bound antibodies does lead to increase in white blood cell activity, but this doesn't mean the presence of antibodies will always lead to white blood cells. The amount of antibodies present in blood stream is not related at all to the number of white blood cells. That is when the antibodies are inactive.

D should be the correct answer, antibodies tell white blood cells where to attack, they bind to a specific marker called an antigen that is foreign or toxic to the local cell environment. They sort of act like signaling molecules that paints target for the white blood cells. So indirectly they would help the body to reduce attacks from foreign and toxic matter which are exhibited in swelling, fever and inflammation which are actually promoted effects by white blood cells in their attempt to kill foreign matter.

Answer 3

thank you!