Question

Draw a well-labelled diagram of an antibody molecule.

Hint:

The variable region of an antibody allows it to specifically bind to antigens, while the constant region determines its immune function.

Answer 1

Antibody structure: An antibody, or immunoglobulin (Ig), has a Y-shaped structure composed of four polypeptide chains: 1. Two heavy chains: The longer chains that form the central portion of the Y. 2. Two light chains: The shorter chains attached to the outer arms of the Y. 3. Antigen-binding sites: Located at the tips of the arms, these sites are specific to the antigen that the antibody recognizes. 4. Constant region: The stem of the Y that is the same in all antibodies of the same class, determining the antibody's class (IgG, IgM, etc.). 5. Variable region: The part of the antibody that binds to the antigen; it varies between different antibodies to recognize different pathogens. Diagram: (Here, you would include a diagram of an antibody showing the labeled parts.)
Final Answer: An antibody molecule consists of two heavy chains, two light chains, antigen-binding sites, a constant region, and a variable region.