Answer: Identical antibodies from a single B cell clone; produced by fusing a B cell with a myeloma cell (hybridoma technology).
- A Antibodies derived collectively from many different activated B cell clones combined together over time according to conventional understanding
- B Identical antibodies from a single B cell clone; produced by fusing a B cell with a myeloma cell (hybridoma technology)
- C Antibodies that are sometimes thought to be synthesized largely artificially using no living cells in routine practice
- D A type of complement protein specifically involved in the classical complement activation pathway process overall
Correct answer: B. Identical antibodies from a single B cell clone; produced by fusing a B cell with a myeloma cell (hybridoma technology)
Explanation: Monoclonal antibodies (MAbs): produced from a single B cell clone, all identical. Made by hybridoma technology: immunize animal → fuse spleen B cells with myeloma cells → select hybridomas → clone. Applications: cancer therapy (Herceptin), diagnostics (pregnancy tests), research.
An antibody is Y-shaped, with two identical antigen-binding sites at the tips of the variable regions - each shaped to recognise one specific antigen - while the constant (Fc) region at the base is recognised by immune cells to trigger further responses.
Concept context
Innate and adaptive immunity, B cells, T cells, antibodies, vaccines, and immune disorders. Critical for NEET.