What is Antibody?

An antibody, also known as immunoglobulin, is a protein produced by the immune system in response to the presence of foreign substances called antigens. These antigens can be bacteria, viruses, toxins, or other harmful invaders. Antibodies are Y-shaped molecules designed to specifically recognize and bind to antigens, marking them for destruction by other immune cells.

They play a role in the body’s defence mechanism by helping in neutralization, opsonization, and elimination of pathogens. Antibodies come in various types, including IgG, IgM, IgA, IgE, and IgD, each with specific functions unique to fight different types of threats.

Types of Antibody and Functions

Types of antibodies include IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG, and IgM. These various types of antibodies and functions help the immune system recognize and neutralize pathogens, toxins, and other foreign substances in the body. These antibodies protect against infections and diseases. In this article, we will cover the types of antibodies, their functions, and their structures in detail.

Table of Content

  • What is Antibody?
  • Structure of Antibody
  • Types of Antibodies and Their Functions
    • IgG (Immunoglobulin G)
    • IgM (Immunoglobulin M)
    • IgA (Immunoglobulin A)
    • IgE (Immunoglobulin E)
    • IgD (Immunoglobulin D)
  • Antibody Diversity and Specificity
  • Important Points and Facts about Antibody

Similar Reads

What is Antibody?

An antibody, also known as immunoglobulin, is a protein produced by the immune system in response to the presence of foreign substances called antigens. These antigens can be bacteria, viruses, toxins, or other harmful invaders. Antibodies are Y-shaped molecules designed to specifically recognize and bind to antigens, marking them for destruction by other immune cells....

Structure of Antibody

The structure of anitbody is described below:...

Types of Antibodies and Their Functions

Isotypes refer to different classes or subclasses of antibodies based on their structural and functional properties. In humans, there are five main isotypes: IgG, IgM, IgA, IgE, and IgD. Each isotype has different function in the immune response which is discussed below:...

Antibody Diversity and Specificity

Antibodies are special because they can match up with lots of different germs. This matching ability is called Antibody diversity. You can understand it like having many different keys for many different locks. Each antibody fits with a certain part of a germ....

Important Points and Facts about Antibody

Some interesting facts about antibody are:...

Conclusion – Types of Antibody and Their Functions

In conclusion, antibodies are essential proteins produced by the immune system to defend against foreign substances known as antigens. These antibodies play a critical role in neutralizing, opsonizing, and eliminating pathogens, contributing to the body’s defense mechanism. Structurally, antibodies are Y-shaped proteins composed of heavy and light chains, with variable regions responsible for antigen binding and constant regions determining their class or isotype. The five main antibody isotypes, IgG, IgM, IgA, IgE, and IgD, each serve unique functions in the immune response, ranging from providing long-term immunity to initiating primary immune responses....

FAQs on Types of Antibody and Their Functions

What are the 5 Types of Antibodies and Function?...