What Does an Antibody Do?

The immune system is a complex and adaptive mechanism that protects against antigen invaders such as viruses, parasites, bacteria and other microbes. Antibodies or immunoglobulins attack these invaders, making them important components of the immune system.

Composition and Structure

Protein complexes called amino acid chains compose antibodies. Two "heavy chains" and two "light chains" make up each antibody molecule. As described by John C. Brown of the University of Kansas, heavy chains are more massive than light chains because they are nearly twice as long. The heavy chains are bound to the light chains side-by-side, forming a Y-shaped structure.

Antigen Interaction

According to The Biology Project website, antibodies structures complement the structures of antigens and are therefore specific to each pathogen. The antibody binds to the pathogen at specific binding sites, neutralizing the antigen.

Antibody Production

B-cell lymphocytes manufacture antibodies. Scientists also create antibodies using biotechnological techniques such as cloning.

Types of Antibodies

Monoclonal antibodies, which are clones of one type of immune cell, are human-made. Polyclonal antibodies are derivative of more than one type of immune cell.

Therapeutic Usage

Doctors use antibodies to fight viral infections and disease through immunization. Scientists also use antibodies in developing new therapies and in pathology research.

References

• University of Arizona - Antibody Structure
• University of Kansas - "What the Heck is an Antibody"