Large quantities of anti-bodies are made in the RER
Antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins, are proteins produced by specialized white blood cells called B cells
Antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins, are proteins produced by specialized white blood cells called B cells. These antibodies play a crucial role in the immune response by recognizing and neutralizing foreign substances such as bacteria, viruses, and toxins.
The process of antibody production begins with the synthesis of these proteins in a structure called the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) within the B cells. The RER is a network of interconnected membrane sacs that are studded with ribosomes, giving it a “rough” appearance. These ribosomes are responsible for producing proteins, including antibodies.
When B cells are activated by the recognition of a specific antigen (foreign substance), they start to divide and undergo a complex process of differentiation. During this process, the B cells develop into plasma cells, which are antibody-producing factories.
In the plasma cells, the rough endoplasmic reticulum is highly developed and specialized for protein synthesis, including antibody production. Ribosomes attached to the RER synthesize the antibody proteins based on the genetic instructions provided by the B cells.
As the antibodies are synthesized, they are folded and modified within the RER to ensure their proper structure and functionality. The RER is equipped with chaperone proteins that assist in the folding process and quality control mechanisms that help remove any misfolded or defective antibodies.
Once the antibodies are successfully synthesized and folded within the RER, they move through the endoplasmic reticulum network to reach the Golgi apparatus. The Golgi apparatus is another cellular structure involved in protein modification, sorting, and packaging.
In the Golgi apparatus, the antibodies undergo further modifications, such as glycosylation (attachment of sugar molecules) and packaging into vesicles. These vesicles then transport the mature antibodies to the cell surface or to the outside of the cell, where they can bind to the specific antigens and initiate the immune response.
In summary, large quantities of antibodies are made in the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) of B cells. The RER serves as the primary site for antibody synthesis, folding, and modification, before the antibodies are transported to other cellular compartments for further processing and release to fight against foreign substances in the body.
More Answers:
Understanding Cell-Mediated Immunity: The Key Players and their Roles in Defending Against Intracellular Pathogens.Understanding the Primary and Secondary Immune Response: How the Body Fights Back
The Role of Neutralization, Precipitation, and Agglutination in Immune Responses and Diagnostic Testing