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Questions and Answers
What is the shape of an antibody molecule?
What determines the specificity of an antibody?
How many major classes of antibodies are there?
What is the function of the constant region of an antibody?
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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.
