Chapter 34, Problem 1CHI

What properties of proteins make them suitable molecules from which to make antibodies?

Summary Introduction

Immunoglobulins (Igs), also termed as antibodies, are glycoprotein molecules made by plasma cells (white blood cells). Igs play an important role in the immune response by particularly identifying and binding to antigens, like bacteria and viruses and thereby aids in destructing them. Igs are classified into five types, namely IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG, and IgM.

Explanation of Solution

Immunoglobulins are proteins that need to be able to form binding surfaces, called idiotopes. These binding surfaces show great chemical diversity, to be complementary with a great diversity of antigen binding sites, called epitopes, on antigens. In general, proteins have 20 amino acids and also possess great structural diversity, which is needed to make antibodies. Nucleic acids and lipids are by comparison more repetitive.