What determines the specificity of an antibody?
A)the amino acids of the antigen-combining sites at the ends of each arm of the Y-shaped antibody
B)the amino acids of the antigen-combining sites at the base of the Y-shaped antibody
C)the nucleic acids of the antigen-combining sites at the base of the Y-shaped antibody
D)the nucleic acids of the antigen-combining sites at the ends of each arm of the Y-shaped antibody
E)the amino acids of the antigen-combining sites at the end of one arm of the Y-shaped antibody

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The amino acids of the antigen-combining sites at the ends of each arm of the Y-shaped antibody determine the specificity of the antibody. These sites directly interact with the antigen and form the antigen-antibody complex. The specific amino acid sequence at these sites determines the shape and complementary interactions between the antigen and the antibody, which ultimately determines the specificity of the antibody for that antigen.

What Determines the Specificity of an Antibody