In certain classes of antibody, the monomeric versions join to form dimers. what portions of the molecules adhere to each other to form these dimers?
Biology · High School · Mon Jan 18 2021
Answered on
In antibodies, particularly in the IgA class, monomers can join together to form dimers. This dimerization occurs through the interaction of the tail portion of the antibodies known as the Fc region (Fragment, crystallizable). Specifically, it is the joining (J) chain that plays a crucial role in mediating the dimerization of IgA molecules. The J chain is a small polypeptide of about 15 kDa that links two IgA monomers together by disulfide bonds to form a dimer. This dimerization is important for the function of IgA, especially in mucosal immunity where IgA dimers are a key component in protecting mucosal surfaces by neutralizing pathogens and toxins.