Infection & ResponseDeep Dive
Antibody Structure and Function
Part of Adaptive Immunity and Antibodies — GCSE Biology
This deep dive covers Antibody Structure and Function within Adaptive Immunity and Antibodies for GCSE Biology. Specific immune responses, antibody production, lymphocytes, memory cells It is section 5 of 18 in this topic. Use this deep dive to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 5 of 18
Practice
20 questions
Recall
25 flashcards
Antibody Structure and Function
Antibodies (also called immunoglobulins) are Y-shaped proteins with remarkable specificity. Each antibody can bind to only one type of antigen, like a lock and key.
Antibody Structure:
- Variable region: The "arms" of the Y - unique for each antigen
- Constant region: The "stem" of the Y - determines antibody function
- Binding sites: Two identical sites at the tips of the arms
- Light and heavy chains: Protein chains held together by bonds
How Antibodies Work:
- Neutralization: Block toxins and prevent pathogens from binding to cells
- Agglutination: Clump pathogens together for easier destruction
- Opsonization: Mark pathogens for destruction by phagocytes
- Complement activation: Trigger complement proteins to destroy pathogens