What occurs when an antibody binds to its specific antigen?

When an antibody binds to its specific antigen, neutralization takes place. This process involves the antibody attaching to an antigen, often a pathogen such as a virus or bacterium, which can inhibit the pathogen's ability to infect cells or exert harmful effects. By neutralizing the antigen, antibodies prevent it from interacting with host cells, providing a key mechanism in the immune response.

In addition to neutralization, this binding can also trigger several other immune responses, including opsonization and phagocytosis, which are important for targeting and eliminating pathogens. However, the core concept of neutralization specifically describes the direct action of antibodies in preventing antigens from causing harm, making it the correct answer for this question.