Antibodies: Function and Mechanism

Antibodies (immunoglobulins) are Y-shaped proteins used by the immune system to identify and neutralize pathogens like bacteria and viruses. Each antibody binds to a specific antigen, tagging it for neutralization or destruction. AREX provides high-quality antibodies for use in detecting and studying these immune responses across various research fields.

Classes and Functions of Antibodies

Antibodies are categorized into five main classes: IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG, and IgM. Each class triggers different immune functions and is distributed in specific body areas during various immune stages. For instance, IgG is the most common antibody, playing a critical role in long-term immunity. AREX offers antibodies tailored for different experimental needs.

Role in Adaptive Immunity

Antibodies are crucial to the adaptive immune system, providing specificity and immunological memory. They work by recognizing antigens, and during immune responses, B cells differentiate into antibody-secreting plasma cells or memory B cells. AREX supports research into these immune mechanisms with validated antibody products.

Antibodies in Vaccines and Infections

Antibodies are central to the protection provided by vaccines, helping prevent infections by producing long-lived plasma cells. Memory B cells allow the immune system to respond to evolving pathogens. AREX supplies antibodies for vaccine development and infectious disease research, enabling innovative approaches to immune protection.