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The Fantasy World of Antibodies: Why Are They Our Superheroes?
In our bodies, countless tiny warriors work around the clock to protect us from pathogens. They are immune antibodies, huge "Y"-shaped molecules composed mainly of proteins that can recognize and neutralize foreign objects such as bacteria and viruses. Understanding the importance of immune antibodies and the mechanisms behind them makes it clearer why they are considered superheroes that protect us.
"The presence of antibodies is not just protection, it also represents the body's commitment to health."
The operations of the immune system can be divided into two major categories: innate immunity and adaptive immunity. Adaptive immunity can be divided into cell-mediated immunity and humoral immunity, and humoral immunity works through the production of antibodies. The main function of antibodies is to recognize and neutralize foreign antigens. This process is accompanied by some key steps, such as B cell activation, proliferation and mutation.
History of Antibodies
As early as the 19th century, scientists began to study the effects of components in serum against bacteria. Hans Buchner proposed the "humoral theory of immunity" in 1890, claiming that the "protective substance" in serum - alexandrine - could destroy microorganisms. Paul Eicher later redefined it as "complement" to further understand the complex mechanisms of the immune system.
Over time, Emil von Billing and Kitashira confirmed in 1890 that the disease would still occur without the presence of the microorganisms themselves. Their research has led us to understand that the synthesis of antibodies against different toxins through the study of filtrates is the key to achieving immune protection. For example, the invention of diphtheria antitoxin was one of the earliest successful immunotherapies.
Types and functions of antibodies
There are five main types of antibodies in the body, namely immunoglobulin A (IgA), immunoglobulin D (IgD), immunoglobulin E (IgE), immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin G (IgG). Globulin M (IgM). These types of antibodies each perform different functions and work together to fight against different antigens.Each antibody corresponds to a specific antigen. They can trigger cell aggregation, activate phagocytosis or hinder viral invasion by binding to antigens. This process is essential for maintaining good health. Imagine if it weren't for these little warriors, our bodies wouldn't be able to effectively defend against foreign threats.
The process of antibody production
During an intense immune response, immature B cells begin to mature in the bone marrow and acquire receptors (BCRs) that recognize specific antigens. Once the BCR interacts with the antigen, the B cell initiates biological signals and produces corresponding antibodies.
"Each antibody is the result of the body's fight against a new enemy. They are like commanders, commanding all the soldiers in battle."
When B cells encounter antigens, they absorb the antigens through endocytosis and present the processed antigens on the cell surface. Afterwards, these antigens are recognized by T cells with the help of MHC-II proteins, which in turn activate the proliferation and differentiation of B cells, ultimately transforming them into antibody-secreting plasma cells or memory B cells.
Complement system and antibodies work together
The complement system is a biochemical cascade composed of a variety of small plasma proteins that acts as an "accelerator" in the immune system. These complements can not only enhance the effectiveness of antibodies, but also directly kill pathogens. When the complement system is activated, it can trigger cytolysis, chemotaxis, encapsulation, and promote the secretion of immune cells, forming a powerful synergistic defense mechanism.
The activation process of the complement system is similar under the three main activation pathways, which is why antibodies not only act alone in body fluids, but also rely on the assistance of this system to completely eliminate invading pathogens.
Thinking about future immune challenges
As science and technology continue to advance, our understanding of the immune system continues to improve, and advances in research and technology are allowing us to fight many diseases more effectively. However, the world is facing more and more health challenges, such as new viruses and bacterial resistance. These challenges require us to rethink the role that antibodies and the immune system will play in the future.
In this unpredictable future, can we rely on these tiny immune warriors to continue to maintain our health and resist invasion from all adversaries?
