[Unit 5.5] | Antibodies Flashcards
Describe the structure of an antibody.
• Consists of 4 polypeptide chains:
• 2 heavy chains (long)
• 2 light chains (short)
• The chains are held together via disulphide bridging.
• The bonding site on each antibody is different for each antigen; it’s called the Variable Region.
• The constant region is the same in all antibodies.
What is an antigen-antibody complex?
When a complementary antigen binds to an antibody’s binding site.
What 4 processes do antibodies use to destroy pathogens?
• Agglutination
• Neutralisation
• Bursting pathogens
• Coating pathogens
Describe the process of agglutination.
• Antibodies cause pathogens to stick together
• Makes it easier for phagocytes to engulf them.
• Reduces the chance of them spreading.
Describe the process of neutralisation.
• Antibodies neutralise the toxins produced by pathogens.
Describe the process of bursting pathogens.
• The antibody binds to a pathogen which sets off a chain reaction with blood proteins.
• The proteins cause holes in the wall of the pathogen.
• Water moves in ane the pathogen bursts.
Describe the process of coating pathogens.
• Antigens can bind to viruses to prevent them from attaching to receptors on host cells and therefore disallowing them from entering.
• Allows for easier phagocytosis.
What is a monoclonal antibody?
An antibody produced from a group of genetically identical B cells.
List 4 ways can monoclonal antibodies be used.
• Cancer treatment
• Detection of pathogens
• Pregnancy tests
• Research of proteins
Explain how cancer can be treated using MABs.
• MABs attach to complementary receptors on a cancer cell.
• The MABs carry and distribute drugs that destroy cancer cells
Explain how MABs are used in pregnancy tests.
• Specific protein binds to complementary antibody.
• Moves along the strip until it is trapped by a different antibody that produces a coloured line.
What are the ethical disadvantages of MABs?
• Animal Testing
• Can cause vomiting, fever and low blood pressure.
