Question

What is epitope and paratope?

Answer 1

Hint: Epitope and paratope take part in the antigen-antibody reaction and complex formation. These are small segments present on certain molecules which are mostly proteinaceous. One of them is produced by B-lymphocytes.

Complete answer
The epitope is a specific region that consists of a sequence of amino acids and is present on the antigen. This specific region is recognized by the antibodies present in our circulatory system, after which they bind to the antigen, which results in their inactivation. The region present on antibodies which binds to the epitope region present on the antigen is known as the paratope.

Additional Information:
Structure of Antibody -
-Antibody consists of four peptide chains, two small chains known as light chains or L- chains, and two large chains known as heavy chains or H-Chains. It is Y shaped in structure. They are represented by the formula H2L2. Antibodies can be either present on the cell membrane surface or remain freely suspended in blood plasma.
-There are five major types of antibodies that are produced in our body. They are known as immunoglobulins, namely IgG, IgA, IgM, IgD, and IgE. Almost 80% of the antibody fraction consists of IgG.
-Lymphocytes are responsible for the primary and secondary immune responses and the antibodies are produced by lymphocytes. Two types of lymphocytes are mainly present, B lymphocytes, and T lymphocytes. Out of these two B lymphocytes are responsible for the production of antibodies and T lymphocytes help in amplifying the production of antibodies.

Note:
>Different antibodies perform different functions in our body:

-IgG: Protection against pathogens like bacteria and viruses by improving phagocytosis.

-IgA: Helps in the protection of mucous membranes against viral and bacterial pathogens.

-IgM: It is a part of the complement system and causes agglutination and lysis of microbial cells.

-IgD: Helps in the activation of B-lymphocytes.

-IgE: Involved in allergic and hypersensitivity reactions.