How Do You Spell IDIOTYPE?

Pronunciation: [ˈɪdɪˌɒta͡ɪp] (IPA)

Idiotype (/ˈɪdiətaɪp/) is a term commonly used in immunology to describe the unique set of antigen-specific determinants on the variable region of an antibody molecule. The spelling of the word "idiotype" can be broken down into three parts: "idio" meaning "peculiar or distinct," "type" indicating a classification, and "-e," a suffix used to form nouns. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced as "id-ee-oh-tahyp," with the primary stress on the second syllable.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
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IDIOTYPE Meaning and Definition

  1. An idiotype is a term used in immunology and immunogenetics to describe a unique set of antigenic determinants within an antibody molecule. These determinants exist on the variable regions of the antibody, specifically on the antigen-binding site. They contribute to the specificity and diversity of the immune response.

    The idiotype of an antibody is determined by the rearrangement of gene segments during B cell development in response to exposure to antigens. It refers to the unique combination of amino acids within the variable regions of the heavy and light chains that make up the antibody molecule. This unique combination of amino acids is responsible for binding to specific antigens with high affinity.

    The idiotype concept is crucial in understanding how the immune system works. It forms the basis for the fine specificity of the antibody-antigen interaction, as each idiotype recognizes a specific antigen or a closely related group of antigens. The existence of idiotype-anti-idiotype interactions is also important in regulating the immune response, as antibodies can bind to and modulate the activity of other antibodies through these interactions.

    Idiotypes are not only important in natural immune responses but also play a role in the development of therapeutic antibodies. The ability to generate antibodies with specific idiotypes has enabled the production of targeted therapies, such as monoclonal antibodies and vaccines, for various diseases including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. Overall, idiotype refers to the unique molecular characteristics of an antibody that determine its specificity and function in the immune system.

Common Misspellings for IDIOTYPE

Etymology of IDIOTYPE

The word "idiotype" is derived from the Greek term "idios" meaning "one's own" and the suffix "-type" meaning "impression" or "model". Combination of these two elements gives "idiotype", which refers to a unique or distinct characteristic or property of an individual or group. In biology and immunology, the term "idiotype" specifically denotes the unique antigenic determinants of an antibody molecule, which allows it to bind to specific antigens.