Antigen-antibody interactions

Definition

Antigen-antibody interactions involve the binding of antibodies to specific antigens, marking them for destruction by the immune system. This interaction is crucial for identifying and neutralizing pathogens.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Antigen-antibody interactions are highly specific; each antibody binds to a unique antigenic determinant or epitope.
2. These interactions can lead to various immune responses, including neutralization, opsonization, and complement activation.
3. Antigen-antibody complexes can form lattices that precipitate out of solution, which is a basis for many diagnostic tests.
4. The strength of the interaction between an antigen and an antibody is referred to as affinity.
5. Monoclonal antibodies are engineered to target specific antigens and are used in both diagnostic and therapeutic applications.

Review Questions

• What determines the specificity of an antigen-antibody interaction?
• Name three immune responses that result from antigen-antibody interactions.
• Why are monoclonal antibodies significant in medical applications?

Related terms

Epitope: The specific part of an antigen that is recognized and bound by an antibody.

Opsonization:

The process by which pathogens are marked for ingestion and elimination by phagocytes.

Monoclonal Antibodies:

Antibodies produced from a single clone of cells, designed to target a specific antigen.