Light chains

Definition

Light chains are the smaller polypeptide subunits of antibodies, forming part of the antibody's antigen-binding site. They pair with heavy chains to create functional immunoglobulin molecules.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Each antibody contains two light chains, which are either kappa or lambda types.
2. Light chains consist of a variable (V) region and a constant (C) region.
3. The variable region contributes to the antigen specificity of the antibody.
4. B cells utilize gene rearrangement to produce diverse light chain sequences.
5. Free light chains can be found in blood and urine, serving as markers for certain diseases like multiple myeloma.

Review Questions

Related terms

Heavy Chains:

Larger polypeptide subunits that pair with light chains to form antibodies.

Variable Region: Part of an antibody that binds specifically to an antigen.

Gene Rearrangement: Process by which B cells generate unique antibody genes through recombination.