Foundations in Pharmacology PHRM2005 – Antibodies

A set of vocabulary flashcards focusing on key terms and concepts related to immunoglobulins and their functions within the context of pharmacology.

Immunoglobulin (Ig)

A type of protein, also known as an antibody, produced by B cells, that recognizes and binds to specific antigens.

IgG

The predominant immunoglobulin in blood, involved in neutralizing toxins and viruses, and capable of crossing the placenta.

IgM

The first immunoglobulin produced during an immune response, existing as a pentamer and most effective at activating the complement system.

IgA

The main immunoglobulin found in external secretions, such as saliva and tears, important for mucosal immunity.

IgE

Immunoglobulin involved in allergic responses and protection against parasitic infections, with a high affinity for receptors on mast cells.

IgD

An immunoglobulin that is co-expressed with IgM on the surface of mature B cells, involved in B cell activation.

Polyclonal antibodies

Antibodies produced by different B cell lineages in response to a specific antigen, recognizing multiple epitopes.

Monoclonal antibodies

Antibodies produced by identical immune cells that are clones of a unique parent cell, recognizing a specific epitope.

Affinity

A quantitative measure of the strength of binding between an antibody and an antigen.

Avidity

The overall strength of the interaction between an antibody with multiple binding sites and an antigen.

Electrophoresis

A technique used to separate charged molecules, such as proteins, based on their size and charge.

Colloid

A liquid containing suspended substances that do not settle out, such as proteins in plasma.

Antigen

A substance that induces an immune response, especially the production of antibodies.

Fc region

The fragment of an immunoglobulin that mediates effector functions, such as binding to Fc receptors on immune cells.

Fab region

The fragment of an antibody that binds to the antigen.