The characteristic function and properties of each class of antibody is determined by the
A) variable region on the light chains.
B) hinge region of all chains.
C) constant region on the light chains.
D) constant region on the heavy chains.
E) variable region on the heavy chains.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The characteristic function and properties of each class of antibody is determined by the constant region on the heavy chains. The heavy chain constant region determines the class (IgM, IgA, IgD, IgG, or IgE) of the antibody, and therefore its properties such as tissue distribution, half-life, and ability to activate complement or bind to Fc receptors.

The Characteristic Function and Properties of Each Class of Antibody