Which antibody class forms a pentamer and is produced early in a primary immune response?

Prepare for your Anatomy and Physiology II Exam with our comprehensive exam resources. Utilize flashcards, multiple choice questions with hints, and detailed explanations. Boost your readiness for success!

Multiple Choice

Which antibody class forms a pentamer and is produced early in a primary immune response?

Explanation:
In a primary immune response, the first antibody produced is IgM. IgM exists as a pentamer—five antibody units held together by a J chain—giving it ten antigen-binding sites. This high valency makes IgM especially good at rapidly clumping pathogens and efficiently triggering the classical complement pathway, providing a strong early defense. As the response matures, B cells undergo class switching to produce other isotypes such as IgG, IgA, or IgE, which handle different roles and tissues. IgG is a monomer produced later with high affinity; IgA is found as a dimer in secretions; IgE is a monomer involved in allergy and parasitic defense.

In a primary immune response, the first antibody produced is IgM. IgM exists as a pentamer—five antibody units held together by a J chain—giving it ten antigen-binding sites. This high valency makes IgM especially good at rapidly clumping pathogens and efficiently triggering the classical complement pathway, providing a strong early defense. As the response matures, B cells undergo class switching to produce other isotypes such as IgG, IgA, or IgE, which handle different roles and tissues. IgG is a monomer produced later with high affinity; IgA is found as a dimer in secretions; IgE is a monomer involved in allergy and parasitic defense.

More practice questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy