Antibodies Flashcards
What are antibodies?
Proteins with specific binding sites produced by B cells
What happens when a B cell encounters non - self materials?
It produces a specific antibody that binds to the antigen
How many binding sites does an antibody have?
Two identical binding sites, both complementary to the specific antigen
Why is there a massive variety of antibodies?
Because antibodies are made of proteins, which can exist in many forms
What are the four polypeptide chains in an antibody like, structure wise?
One pair of chains are long and heavy and the other pair is shorter and lighter
What is formed when an antibody binds to an antigen?
An antigen - antibody complex
What is the variable region of an antibody?
The part of the antibody with a specific 3D shape that binds to a specific antigen
Why is the variable region different in each antibody?
Because each antibody binds to a different antigen
What is the constant region of an antibody?
The part that binds to receptors on cells such as B cells
Do antibodies destroy antigens directly, if not what do they do instead?
No, they prepare the antigen for destruction
What are the two main ways antibodies assist in bacterial destruction?
Agglutination and acting as markers for phagocytosis
What is agglutination?
This refers to the clumping of articles together
How does agglutination help destroy bacterial cells?5
Agglutination causes clumps of bacteria to form, making them easier for phagocytes to locate because they will be less spread out within the body
How do antibodies act as markers in immune response?
They stimulate phagocytes to engulf the bacterial cells they are attached to
What are monoclonal antibodies?
Antibodies that are produced outside the body from a single type of B cell clone
Why are monoclonal antibodies useful in medicine?
They are highly specific to one antigen and can be used to target specific cells or substances
What is direct monoclonal antibody therapy?
Monoclonal antibodies bind to antigens on cancer cells, blocking signals that cause uncontrolled growth
What is an advantage of direct monoclonal antibody therapy and how is it possible?
An advantage of direct monoclonal antibody therapy is that it lead to fewer side effects than other forms of therapy. This is because the antibodies are not toxic and highly specific
What is indirect monoclonal antibody therapy?
A radioactive or cytotoxic drug is attached to the monoclonal antibody, which kills cancer cells when it binds
What are monoclonal antibodies called “magic bullets”?
They specifically target diseased cells, allowing for smaller doses and fewer side effects
