Chapter 21.3, Problem 9AYLO

Summary Introduction

To discuss:

The five antibody classes and their structural and functional differences.

Introduction:

Antibodies (Abs) are proteins that play an important role in the defense mechanism. They are also called as immunoglobulins (Igs). Some antibodies are integral proteins located in the plasma membrane of mast cells and basophils. Thus, antibodies play a vital role in innate immunity. Some antibodies that are involved in adaptive immunity are membrane proteins of B lymphocytes. These membrane proteins (soluble proteins) get dissolved in the saliva, lymph, blood plasma, mucus, intestinal secretion, breast milk, and tears.