Antibodies, also called immunoglobulins, play a big role in our immune system. They help recognize and fight off germs like bacteria and viruses. Let’s break down how they work and why they are so important.
Antibodies have a special shape that looks like a "Y." They are made of two heavy chains and two light chains.
The tips of the Y are called Fab (Fragment antigen-binding) regions. These tips have specific spots to grab onto antigens, which are tiny markers found on germs.
The other part of the Y is called the Fc (Fragment crystallizable) region. This part helps antibodies connect with other immune cells and proteins.
Specificity: Each antibody is designed to attach to one specific antigen. This is possible because of the unique shape at the tips of the Fab region. For example, some antibodies can target the spike protein of the virus that causes COVID-19.
Neutralization: When antibodies grab onto a germ, they can stop it from causing harm. They do this by:
Activating the Complement System: The Fc region of antibodies can kickstart the complement system. This system helps destroy germs or makes them easier for other immune cells, called phagocytes, to find and eat.
In short, antibodies are vital for spotting germs and helping to get rid of them. They show how our immune system works hard to keep us safe from illnesses.
Antibodies, also called immunoglobulins, play a big role in our immune system. They help recognize and fight off germs like bacteria and viruses. Let’s break down how they work and why they are so important.
Antibodies have a special shape that looks like a "Y." They are made of two heavy chains and two light chains.
The tips of the Y are called Fab (Fragment antigen-binding) regions. These tips have specific spots to grab onto antigens, which are tiny markers found on germs.
The other part of the Y is called the Fc (Fragment crystallizable) region. This part helps antibodies connect with other immune cells and proteins.
Specificity: Each antibody is designed to attach to one specific antigen. This is possible because of the unique shape at the tips of the Fab region. For example, some antibodies can target the spike protein of the virus that causes COVID-19.
Neutralization: When antibodies grab onto a germ, they can stop it from causing harm. They do this by:
Activating the Complement System: The Fc region of antibodies can kickstart the complement system. This system helps destroy germs or makes them easier for other immune cells, called phagocytes, to find and eat.
In short, antibodies are vital for spotting germs and helping to get rid of them. They show how our immune system works hard to keep us safe from illnesses.