Immunology is concerned in the structure and function of the immune system, innate and acquired imunity and studies protection of organism from foreign macromolecules or invading organisms and responses to them. These invaders include viruses, bacteria, protozoa or even larger parasites. In addition, organisms develop immune responses against own proteins (and other molecules) in autoimmunity and against own aberrant cells in tumor immunity.
Antibodies (immunoglobulines) are glycoprotein molecules produced by plasma cells in response to an immunogen. Antibodies bind specifically to one or a few closely related antigens. Each immunoglobulin actually binds to a specific antigenic determinant. Antigen binding by antibodies is the primary function of antibodies and can result in protection of the host. Diagnostic antibodies are used to detect several patogens and parasites or to identify tumour cells.
Therapeutic antibodies are laboratory-engineered substances that recognize and bind onto a protein on the surface of a cell. Each therapeutic antibody recognizes a different protein, or antigen, and in general can be used alone, in combination with chemotherapy or as a carrier of substances such as toxins or radiation. After binding to the targeted site, the therapeutic antibody can block the growth of the tumor and/or recruit the body's immune system to attack the target, and can also sensitize a cancer cell to chemotherapy.
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