Which portion of the antibody determines its isotype?

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Study for the NBME Immunology Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Prepare to excel!

Multiple Choice

Which portion of the antibody determines its isotype?

Explanation:
Isotype is determined by the constant portion of the heavy chain, specifically the Fc region. The heavy-chain constant region defines the antibody class (IgM, IgG, IgA, IgD, IgE) and its effector functions, while the variable regions at the tips of the molecule determine which antigen it binds. During class switching, a B cell changes the heavy-chain constant region to produce a different isotype without altering antigen specificity, preserving what antigen is recognized but changing how the antibody interacts with other parts of the immune system.

Isotype is determined by the constant portion of the heavy chain, specifically the Fc region. The heavy-chain constant region defines the antibody class (IgM, IgG, IgA, IgD, IgE) and its effector functions, while the variable regions at the tips of the molecule determine which antigen it binds. During class switching, a B cell changes the heavy-chain constant region to produce a different isotype without altering antigen specificity, preserving what antigen is recognized but changing how the antibody interacts with other parts of the immune system.

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