Antigens and Antibodies

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to antigens and antibodies, focusing on immunoglobulin variants, antibody responses, binding properties, and monoclonal antibody production.

Immunoglobulin Variants

IgG, IgM, IgA, IgE, IgD; genetic determinants that vary among individuals.

Primary antibody response

The immune response that occurs upon the first exposure to an antigen.

Secondary antibody response

An enhanced immune response upon repeated exposure to the same antigen.

Antibody affinity

The individual strength of binding between an antibody and its antigen.

Antibody avidity

Overall strength of binding, influenced by multiple binding sites.

Immune complexes

Noncovalent combinations of antibodies and antigens.

Opsonin effect

The process by which proteins bind to foreign particles, enhancing phagocytosis.

Types of bonding in antigen-antibody interactions

Includes hydrophobic bonding, hydrogen bonds, van der Waals forces, and electrostatic forces.

Goodness of fit

The compatibility between an antibody-combining site and an antigen determinant.

Monoclonal antibodies

Antibodies produced by identical immune cells that are clones of a unique parent cell.