Question

1. Compare and contrast an antibody and a B-cell receptor.

2. Does the fetus have any antibodies? An infant? Explain.

Answer 1

answer 1

An antibody (Ab), also known as an immunoglobulin (Ig), is a large, Y-shaped protein produced mainly by plasma cells that is used by the immune system to neutralize pathogens such as pathogenic bacteria and viruses.

The B cell receptor (BCR) is a transmembrane protein on the surface of a B cell. B cell receptors are composed of immunoglobulin molecules that form a type 1 transmembrane receptor protein, and are typical located on the outer surface of these lymphocyte cells.

Antibodies or immunoglobulins are found as a secreted product of effector B cell(plasma cell) which is not bound to any surface membrane and can perform various effector functions.

answer 2

In humans, maternal antibodies (MatAb) are passed through the placenta to the fetus by an FcRn receptor on placental cells.Babies produce their own antibodies every time they are exposed to a virus or germ, but it takes time for this immunity to fully develop. Maternal antibodies, specifically immunoglobulin G (IgG), are passed to the fetus to provide passive immunity throughout much of pregnancy.