Question

Which of the following is the ideal symbolic representation of an immunoglobulin molecule?

• A. $H_3{L}_4$
• B. $H_2{L}_2$
• C. $H_4{L}_4$
• D. $H_4{L}_3$

Answer 1

The correct option is B $H_2{L}_2$

Antibodies or immunoglobulins are proteins that are present in the blood and lymph and provide immunity against specific antigens. These proteins are produced by B-lymphocytes.

Antibodies are ‘Y’ shaped and each antibody has 4 peptide chains, two short light chains and two long heavy chains. The two heavy chains are linked to each other and to the light chains with the help of disulfide bonds. Thus, each antibody is expressed as H₂L₂ consisting of 2 heavy and 2 light chains.

Figure: Antibody molecule