Which term describes a specific antibody that acts destructively upon cells and tissues?

The term that describes a specific antibody that acts destructively upon cells and tissues is "lysin." Lysin refers to substances, particularly in immunology, that can cause lysis or destruction of cells, especially pathogenic cells like bacteria. They function by binding to specific targets, leading to the breakdown of cell membranes and ultimately resulting in cell death.

In this context, lysins play an important role in the immune response, allowing the body to eliminate harmful organisms and maintain health. Antibodies tagged as lysins are critical in targeting and neutralizing pathogens effectively, thereby facilitating an immune response that protects tissues from damage. Understanding this function is essential in fields such as microbiology and immunology where the interplay between antibodies and pathogens is crucial.

Other terms in the options don't specifically refer to the destructive action upon cells and tissues in the same way. An enzyme is a biological catalyst that facilitates chemical reactions, but it does not specifically denote an antibody's activity. A bacterium refers to a type of microorganism that can be harmful or beneficial, while a microbe is a broader term that includes bacteria, viruses, and fungi, without the specific destructive implication related to antibodies.