Antibodies are protective proteins produced by the immune system in response to antigens, primarily by B lymphocytes. They are classified into five main types: IgG, IgA, IgM, IgD, and IgE, each with unique structures and biological functions, such as neutralizing toxins and promoting phagocytosis. The document details the structural characteristics, serum concentrations, half-lives, and functions of each antibody type, explaining their roles in immune responses.