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Microbiology · Chapter 13

Anatomy of an Antibody

An antibody is a Y built from four protein chains. Its shape is the whole story. The tips vary so they can fit one antigen. The stem stays constant so it can call in the rest of the immune system. Tap a part to take the Y apart. Switch classes and the molecule really changes shape. Then run the four jobs antibodies do.

IgGone Y, two grips

Antibody structure, class by class
Binding sites
2
Share of blood antibody
75-80%
Crosses placenta
yes
Sets off complement
yes

All five classesshape and main job

IgGthe workhorse of lasting immunity
Pick a class
Tap a part of the Y