Final answer:
Antibodies are the molecules that bind to foreign proteins (antigens) that enter the body, and they serve a critical role in the immune response by targeting pathogens for destruction.
Step-by-step explanation:
The molecules that bind to foreign proteins that enter the body are called antibodies. Antibodies, or immunoglobulins, are specific proteins produced by the immune system in response to antigens, which are typically foreign substances like bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. An antigen is any molecule that can elicit an immune response, and it may include proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids. When a B cell of the immune system encounters an antigen, it can become activated and transform into a plasma cell that produces antibodies. These antibodies are designed to specifically recognize and bind to the antigen that triggered the response, which helps in targeting the pathogen for destruction by other immune cells.