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Questions and Answers
What role do lymphocytes play in the immune response?
What role do lymphocytes play in the immune response?
What is the purpose of monoclonal antibodies in pregnancy test kits?
What is the purpose of monoclonal antibodies in pregnancy test kits?
How are hybridoma cells created in the production of monoclonal antibodies?
How are hybridoma cells created in the production of monoclonal antibodies?
What is a primary function of monoclonal antibodies in cancer treatment?
What is a primary function of monoclonal antibodies in cancer treatment?
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What happens to antigens when monoclonal antibodies bind to them?
What happens to antigens when monoclonal antibodies bind to them?
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Study Notes
Antibodies and their Function
- Antibodies are proteins made by lymphocytes (white blood cells)
- Pathogens (disease-causing agents) have antigens (proteins on their surface)
- Lymphocytes recognize foreign antigens and produce antibodies to attack them
- Antibodies are specific: only one type binds to one specific antigen
- Antibodies can bind to antigens on various substances, not just pathogens
- Binding makes antigens and their carriers easier to identify and eliminate
Monoclonal Antibody Production
- Process involves injecting an antigen to a mouse
- Mouse produces lymphocytes that create specific antibodies
- Spleen cells are surgically removed, containing antibody-producing lymphocytes
- Spleen cells are fused with myeloma cells (cancerous white blood cells), creating hybridoma cells
- Hybridoma cells continuously produce monoclonal antibodies against the original antigen
Applications of Monoclonal Antibodies
- Pregnancy tests: Kits use monoclonal antibodies designed to bind with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone found in pregnant women's urine
- Positive test: hCG binds to antibodies on the test stick, causing a color change or pattern indicating pregnancy
- Cancer diagnosis and treatment: Cancer cells have specific antigens
- Monoclonal antibodies can be designed to attach to these antigens
- Injected antibodies bind to cancer cells, clumping them together
- Easier identification and treatment/removal of cancerous tumors
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Description
Explore the vital role antibodies play in the immune system, including their specificity and interaction with antigens. This quiz also delves into the process of monoclonal antibody production and their various applications, such as in pregnancy tests. Test your knowledge on these essential biological concepts!
