Fragment antigen-binding
Fragment antigen-binding (Fab)
Fragment antigen-binding (Fab) is a region on an antibody that binds to antigens. It is the most crucial part of the antibody, as it is responsible for the specific recognition of foreign particles, which are called antigens. The pronunciation of Fragment antigen-binding is /ˈfrægmənt ˈæntɪdʒən ˈbaɪndɪŋ/.
Etymology
The term "Fragment antigen-binding" is derived from its function. "Fragment" refers to the part of the antibody, "antigen" is the foreign particle that the antibody recognizes, and "binding" refers to the interaction between the antibody and the antigen.
Structure
The Fab region of an antibody is composed of one constant and one variable domain of each of the heavy and the light chain. The variable domain is responsible for recognizing and binding to the antigen. The constant domain, on the other hand, contributes to the overall structure of the antibody.
Function
The main function of the Fab region is to bind to antigens. This binding is highly specific, meaning that each Fab region recognizes and binds to a specific antigen. This specificity is what allows the immune system to target and eliminate a wide variety of foreign particles.
Related Terms
- Antibody: A protein produced by the immune system that recognizes and binds to specific antigens.
- Antigen: A foreign particle that is recognized and bound by an antibody.
- Immune system: The body's defense system against foreign particles and diseases.
- Variable domain: The part of the Fab region that recognizes and binds to the antigen.
- Constant domain: The part of the Fab region that contributes to the overall structure of the antibody.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Fragment antigen-binding
- Wikipedia's article - Fragment antigen-binding
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