What is the term for an antibody's ability to block binding sites on bacteria and viruses?

Neutralization refers to the process by which antibodies bind to specific sites on pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses, effectively blocking these sites and preventing the pathogens from entering or infecting host cells. This action is crucial in the immune response, as it renders the pathogens inactive or less virulent.

The ability of antibodies to neutralize pathogens contributes to the host's defense by interfering with the pathogen's mechanisms for attachment and infection. By binding to the pathogen, the antibodies can prevent the interaction between the pathogen and host cell receptors, thus inhibiting the pathogen's ability to cause disease.

Opsonization, while related to the immune response, specifically refers to the process where antibodies and other proteins coat the pathogens to enhance their recognition and ingestion by phagocytes. This process does not necessarily block binding sites but rather marks the pathogens for destruction.

Activation typically refers to the triggering of the immune response, such as the activation of complement or other immune cells, but not specifically to the blocking of binding sites by antibodies.

Innate immunity is the body's first line of defense against pathogens and encompasses physical barriers and non-specific responses. It does not directly describe the specific action of antibodies blocking binding sites.

Therefore, neutralization is the most accurate term to describe the ability of antibodies