Summary
Y-shaped proteins made by B cells that bind specific antigens and mark them for destruction.
In depth
Structure: two heavy and two light chains with variable regions that bind antigen and a constant region (Fc) that signals to immune cells. Functions: neutralisation, opsonisation, agglutination and complement activation.
Antigen binding uses six loops (CDRs) in the variable regions. Affinity is increased by hypermutation. Antibodies can cross-link antigens, leading to agglutination or precipitation.
Key idea: antibodies tag, neutralise and recruit other defences.
Frequently asked questions
What is Antibodies?
Y-shaped proteins made by B cells that bind specific antigens and mark them for destruction.
Which area of biology covers Antibodies, and how advanced is it?
Antibodies is one of the 52 topics in Immunology & Disease. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Antibody Diversity, Innate Immunity, Phagocytosis.
Can you give an example of Antibodies?
Antibodies against the tetanus toxin neutralise it.
What should I learn before Antibodies?
Antibodies is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Immunology & Disease that pair well with it include Immune System, Viruses, Innate Immunity.
What topics are related to Antibodies?
The closest topics to Antibodies are Antibody Diversity, Innate Immunity, Phagocytosis, Clonal Selection. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Antibodies?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Antibodies. To practise the whole of Immunology & Disease, use the Immunology & Disease quiz.
How is Antibodies different from Antibody Diversity?
Antibodies: Y-shaped proteins made by B cells that bind specific antigens and mark them for destruction. Antibody Diversity: V(D)J recombination and somatic hypermutation generate billions of distinct receptors and antibodies. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Antibodies step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Antibody Diversity and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Immunology & Disease quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.