Why are antibodies important in the immune system other than marking pathogens?

Antibodies play a crucial role in the immune system by contributing to long-term immunity. When the body is exposed to pathogens, such as bacteria or viruses, specific antibodies are produced to neutralize these threats. After the initial infection has been cleared, memory cells retain information about the pathogen, allowing the immune system to generate a quicker and more effective response upon subsequent exposures. This immunological memory is fundamental to long-term immunity because it means that the body is better prepared to fend off infections from the same pathogen in the future.

The other options do not accurately represent the function of antibodies. Emotional responses during infection are mediated by the brain and not directly by antibodies. Structural support for cells is provided by different molecules, such as cytoskeletal proteins, rather than antibodies. Additionally, blood sugar regulation is managed by hormones like insulin and glucagon, not by antibodies.