Antibodies are y-shaped glycoproteins produced by B-lymphocytes (B-
cells) in response to the presence of antigens. Each antibody consists of four
polypeptide (two or more amino acids) chains, which create the binding sites
for antigen adhesion. They are considered immunoglobulins (consisting of
many different antibodies). Almost all of your antibodies, except your
naturally inherited ones (based on blood types), are created by B-cells
bonding with a foreign antigen.
Antibodies are called gamma globulins. Large amounts of these are
found in plasma (blood) where other proteins, like albumin, etc., exist.
Antibodies are also called immunoglobulins (IQ), because they are globulin
proteins involved in immunity.
PRIMARY RESPONSE — (takes 3-14 days)
B-cells are activated by antigen(s).
B-cells multiply and create B-memory cells. These cells produce
antibodies (y-shaped proteins).SECONDARY RESPONSE — (hours to 3 days)
Occurs when the body is exposed to familiar antigens. These are antigens
that the body has previously battled with and recognizes. These antigens
therefore create immediate B-cell response from B-memory cells.
This rapid response creates even more B-memory cells, therefore
increasing further immunity. Memory cells are the basis for adaptive
immunity.ANTIBODIES NEUTRALIZE OR DESTROY ANTIGENS BY:
initiating lysis (rupturing and breaking down the invader).
neutralizing toxins of bacterial activity.
phagocytosis (ingesting, neutralizing and destroying).
promoting antigen-clumping (agglutination).
preventing the antigen from adhering to a host cell.ANTIBODIES DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY ...
detect antigens or bind them together.
increase phagocytosis.
increase inflammation.
activate complement proteins.