CONSTANT REGION Meaning and
Definition
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The Constant Region, also known as the C region, is a part of an antibody molecule that remains consistent or unchanged among different antibody molecules of the same class or subclass. It is a distinct sequence of amino acids located at the terminal ends of the antibody molecules and plays a crucial role in the antibody's biological function.
The Constant Region is responsible for the effector functions of the antibody, which include binding to specific antigenic targets and initiating various immune responses. It determines the class or isotype of the antibody, such as IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG, or IgM. Each isotype serves a distinct function in immune defense mechanisms. Moreover, within each isotype, there are further subclasses that exhibit variations in their Constant Region sequences.
The Constant Region is involved in critical interactions with other components of the immune system, including immune cells and effector molecules. It mediates the binding of the antibody to immune cell receptors, such as Fc receptors, leading to the activation of immune responses like phagocytosis, complement fixation, and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity.
The conservation of the Constant Region within a particular antibody class or subclass allows for the identification and categorization of antibodies based on their shared characteristics and function. This region is highly conserved during antibody production, ensuring the preservation of essential immune functions across different individuals and species.
In summary, the Constant Region is an invariant part of an antibody molecule that determines its class or subclass and contributes to its effector functions in the immune system. It serves as a structural and functional anchor, facilitating interactions with specific receptors and molecules to initiate immune responses.
Common Misspellings for CONSTANT REGION
- xonstant region
- vonstant region
- fonstant region
- donstant region
- cinstant region
- cknstant region
- clnstant region
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- c0nstant region
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- conatant region
- conztant region
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- conetant region
- conwtant region
Etymology of CONSTANT REGION
The term "Constant Region" in biology has its etymology rooted in Latin. The word "constant" comes from the Latin word "constans", which means "standing firm" or "steady". The term "region" comes from the Latin word "regio", which generally refers to an area or a portion of space. In the context of biology, the "Constant Region" is used to describe the part of an antibody or immunoglobulin molecule that remains constant or unchanging across different antibody molecules. This region is responsible for carrying out specific functions, such as binding to antigens or activating immune responses.
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