Questions and Answers
Is class switching the same as VDJ recombination?
False
B cells can ________ the type of heavy chain they use for their antibodies during an immune response.
change
Where does class switching occur?
secondary lymphoid organs
What does class switching ensure?
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Is the variable heavy chain affected in class switching?
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What immunoglobulin do all B cells start by secreting?
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Activated B cells presenting antigen to T helper cells receive cytokine signals that induce them to __________________ to other isotypes.
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What is required for class switching?
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Is the part not involved in VDJ recombination still involved in the genome?
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To switch to a new isotype, the intervening heavy chain ________ regions have to be cut out of the DNA.
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Does class switching use the same or different enzymes than VDJ recombination?
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Where can recombination take place?
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_______________ DNA is cut out and a new constant region is placed adjacent to the VDJ region.
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What influences the class of antibody made by B cells?
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Study Notes
Class Switching Overview
- Class switching is a process allowing B cells to change the type of heavy chain expressed in their antibodies during an immune response.
- It ensures that only one receptor is expressed on the surface of each B cell, maintaining specificity in immune responses.
Mechanism of Class Switching
- Activated B cells present antigens to T helper cells and receive cytokine signals that induce them to switch to other antibody isotypes.
- Class switching occurs primarily in secondary lymphoid organs, such as lymph nodes and spleens.
- In class switching, intervening heavy chain constant regions are removed from the DNA, placing downstream constant regions adjacent to the recombined variable domain.
Genetic Implications
- The variable heavy chain remains unaffected during class switching; only constant regions are modified.
- Different enzymes are used for class switching compared to VDJ recombination, involving specific mechanisms for heavy chain rearrangement.
- Recombination can occur between switch regions within the DNA to facilitate the switch to different antibody isotypes.
Immunological Context
- All B cells initially secrete IgM antibodies before undergoing class switching.
- CD40/CD40L interactions are essential for the class switching process.
- The type of cytokine produced by T helper cells influences which class of antibody is made by B cells.
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Description
Test your knowledge on class switching in immunology with these flashcards. Learn about the mechanisms involved, such as VDJ recombination, and the role of B cells in antibody production. Perfect for students studying advanced immunology concepts.