BCR

Definition

B Cell Receptor (BCR) is a membrane-bound immunoglobulin molecule present on the surface of B lymphocytes. It plays a crucial role in recognizing specific antigens and initiating an immune response.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. BCRs are essential for the activation and differentiation of B cells.
2. Each B cell has a unique BCR that is specific to a particular antigen.
3. Upon binding to an antigen, the BCR triggers intracellular signaling pathways leading to B cell activation.
4. BCRs undergo somatic hypermutation and class-switch recombination during an immune response to increase antibody diversity.
5. The structure of a BCR includes two heavy chains and two light chains forming a Y-shaped molecule.

Review Questions

• What role does the B Cell Receptor (BCR) play in the immune response?
• Describe the structural components of a B Cell Receptor.
• How do BCRs contribute to antibody diversity during an immune response?

Related terms

Antigen: A substance that is recognized by the immune system as foreign and can elicit an immune response.

Immunoglobulin: A type of antibody produced by plasma cells that plays a key role in neutralizing pathogens.

Somatic Hypermutation: A process that involves mutations in the variable regions of immunoglobulin genes, increasing antibody diversity.