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Questions and Answers
What is the shape of an antibody molecule?
What is the shape of an antibody molecule?
- Linear
- Y-shaped (correct)
- Helical
- Circular
What determines the specificity of an antibody?
What determines the specificity of an antibody?
- The light chains
- The heavy chains
- The variable region (correct)
- The constant region
How many major classes of antibodies are there?
How many major classes of antibodies are there?
- 6
- 4
- 3
- 5 (correct)
What is the function of the constant region of an antibody?
What is the function of the constant region of an antibody?
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How many polypeptide chains make up an antibody molecule?
How many polypeptide chains make up an antibody molecule?
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Study Notes
Antibody Structure
- Antibodies are proteins called immunoglobulins, consisting of four polypeptides: two heavy chains and two light chains, forming a "Y" shaped molecule.
Antibody Specificity
- The amino acid sequence at the tips of the "Y" shape (110-130 amino acids) varies among different antibodies, giving each antibody its specificity.
Antibody Function
- The constant region of an antibody determines the mechanism used to destroy antigens.
Antibody Classification
- Antibodies are divided into 5 major classes: IgM, IgG, IgA, IgD, and IgE, based on their constant region structure and immune function.
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Description
Learn about the structure and function of antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins, including their composition, variability, and classification into different classes.
