Question

Highlight the structural importance of an antibody molecule with a diagram. Name the four types of antibodies found to give a humoral immune response, mentioning the functions of two of them you have studied.

Answer 1

An antibody molecule consists of four polypeptide chains, two are long called heavy (H) chains while the other two are short called light (L) chains. Both are arranged in the shape of Y. Hence, the antibody is represented as H₂L₂.

Types of Antibody: IgA, IgM, IgE, IgG

Functions:

• IgA – Lactating Mothers to protect their infant.
• IgE – To protect from an allergen.