Textbook Question
Which of the following is not a role of TH cells?
a. Stimulation of macrophages
b. Activation of naïve TC cells
c. Stimulation of naïve B cells
d. Stimulation of clonal selection
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21. The Immune System
Introduction to Adaptive Immunity
3:08 minutesProblem 4
Textbook Question
Which antibody class is abundant in body secretions?
a. IgA
b. IgD
c. IgE
d. IgG
e. IgM
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of antibodies in the immune system: Antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins, are proteins produced by B cells that help identify and neutralize pathogens such as bacteria and viruses.
Learn about the different classes of antibodies: There are five main classes of antibodies—IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG, and IgM—each with distinct functions and locations in the body.
Focus on IgA: IgA is the antibody class primarily found in mucosal areas, such as the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, and in body secretions like saliva, tears, and breast milk. Its main role is to protect mucosal surfaces by preventing the attachment of pathogens.
Compare IgA with other antibody classes: For example, IgG is the most abundant antibody in the blood and extracellular fluid, IgE is involved in allergic reactions, IgM is the first antibody produced during an immune response, and IgD is primarily found on immature B cells.
Conclude that IgA is the antibody class abundant in body secretions, based on its specific function and location in the body.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Antibody Classes
Antibodies, or immunoglobulins, are proteins produced by the immune system to identify and neutralize pathogens. There are five main classes of antibodies: IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG, and IgM, each serving distinct roles in immune response. Understanding these classes is crucial for recognizing their functions and locations within the body.
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Classes of Antibodies
IgA Function
IgA is the primary antibody found in mucosal areas, such as the gut, respiratory tract, and urogenital tract, as well as in secretions like saliva, tears, and breast milk. It plays a vital role in mucosal immunity by preventing pathogen adherence and invasion, making it essential for protecting body surfaces exposed to external environments.
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Immune Response
The immune response is the body's defense mechanism against infections and diseases. It involves the recognition of pathogens, activation of immune cells, and production of antibodies. Different antibody classes, including IgA, contribute to various aspects of this response, highlighting the importance of understanding their specific roles in maintaining health.
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