What is a monoclonal antibody and how do they work?

Monoclonal (meaning one identical copy) antibodies are molecules are an essential part of the immune system. They are produced by lymphocytes. Antibodies have a highly specific structure that allows them to bind to molecules on a pathogens surface called antigens. Each antibody is specific to a single antigen and can only bind to that single type. Pathogens that have antigens on their surface get clumped together by antibodies. This makes it easier for other mechanisms in the immune system (e.g. macrophages) to identify and deal with them.Bonus: Antibodies are a special type of protein called a glycoprotein.Antibodies can bind two of the same antigen at a time.The scientific term used to describe the 'clumping' of pathogens is 'agglutinate'.There are many types of lymphocyte. The lymphocytes that release antibodies are called B plasma cells.