LAMBDA IMMUNOGLOBULIN Meaning and
Definition
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Lambda Immunoglobulin refers to one of the two types of light chains found in an antibody molecule. It is a type of polypeptide chain that along with the other type, known as the kappa light chain, contributes to the structure and function of immunoglobulins, or antibodies.
Immunoglobulins are proteins produced by the immune system in response to the presence of foreign substances, such as bacteria, viruses, or toxins. They play a crucial role in the body's defense against infections and diseases.
The lambda light chain is specifically responsible for determining the antigen-binding specificity of certain antibodies. It is composed of approximately 220 amino acids and consists of a variable region and a constant region. The variable region is responsible for recognizing and binding to specific target molecules, also known as antigens, while the constant region is involved in effector functions and structural stability.
Lambda Immunoglobulin is denoted by the Greek letter λ (lambda) to distinguish it from the kappa chain, which is denoted by the Greek letter κ (kappa). Together, these two types of light chains, along with heavy chains, form the unique structural and functional diversity of antibodies.
The presence of lambda Immunoglobulin in the body can be assessed through laboratory tests, such as immunofixation electrophoresis, which is useful in diagnosing and monitoring various immune disorders and malignancies.
Common Misspellings for LAMBDA IMMUNOGLOBULIN
- kambda immunoglobulin
- pambda immunoglobulin
- oambda immunoglobulin
- lzmbda immunoglobulin
- lsmbda immunoglobulin
- lwmbda immunoglobulin
- lqmbda immunoglobulin
- lanbda immunoglobulin
- lakbda immunoglobulin
- lajbda immunoglobulin
- lamvda immunoglobulin
- lamnda immunoglobulin
- lamhda immunoglobulin
- lamgda immunoglobulin
- lambsa immunoglobulin
- lambxa immunoglobulin
- lambca immunoglobulin
- lambfa immunoglobulin
- lambra immunoglobulin
- lambea immunoglobulin
Etymology of LAMBDA IMMUNOGLOBULIN
The term "lambda immunoglobulin" comes from the Greek letter "lambda" (Λ), which is the eleventh letter of the Greek alphabet. The usage of "lambda" in this context is due to the different types of light chains found in immunoglobulins or antibodies that are involved in the immune response. There are two types of light chains, known as lambda and kappa, which are distinguished by their amino acid sequence. The term "lambda immunoglobulin" specifically refers to immunoglobulins that possess the lambda light chain.
