4.1.1h&i) Structure and general functions of antibodies and an outline of the action of opsonins, agglutinins and anti-toxins

Question 1

Antibodies

Answer 1

Antigen binding site
Light chain
Heavy chain - site where the antibody can bind to the cell
Variable region - complementary to the region
Hinge region - flexibility
Contrast region - same in all antibodies & site where it binds to the immune system
Disulphide bonds

Creates antigen - antibody complex

Question 2

Opsonins

Answer 2

Antibodies that bind to antigens & act as markers for phagocytes
Phagocyte engulfing bacteria which have been identified by antibody
Opsonins antibodies bind with antigens

Question 3

Agglutinins

Answer 3

Binds to antigens & cause clumping - prevents them entering the body
Bacteria clumps together
Agglutinins antibodies bind with antigen

Question 4

Anti-toxins

Answer 4

Binds to toxin to prevent harm to human cells
Phagocytes then engulf the ‘toxic antibody’ complex