Abstract
Studies of antibody structure have shown that the great diversity of antigen combining sites is due to the highly variable amino-terminal protein sequences of both light and heavy chain polypeptides. The observation that antibody polypeptide sequences have variable and constant regions presented geneticists with a paradox: how did evolution introduce such sequence diversity in the variable region while keeping the constant region free from mutations? In the past ten years, the availability of recombinant DNA techniques has resulted in a tremendous wealth of information regarding the genetic structure and organization of immunoglobulin genes. This chapter focuses on the structure of the genes coding for the antibody variable regions, the number and organization of these genes, and the diversity of V genes within the germline of an individual or species.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
