Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The Fc region is the tail part of an antibody that interacts with cell surface receptors and complement proteins. It plays a crucial role in modulating immune responses.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
The Fc region is important for binding to Fc receptors on immune cells such as macrophages and natural killer cells.
It is involved in activating the complement system, which helps clear pathogens from an organism.
Different classes of antibodies (IgG, IgA, IgM, etc.) have distinct Fc regions that determine their specific functions.
The interaction between the Fc region and Fc receptors can trigger processes like phagocytosis and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC).
Mutations or alterations in the Fc region can affect an antibody's efficacy and its ability to mediate immune responses.