Antikeha
Antikeha refers to an antibody or immunoglobulin, a large, Y-shaped protein produced mainly by plasma cells that recognize and bind to specific antigens. Antibodies are a key component of the adaptive immune system. They are produced by B lymphocytes following exposure to antigens and can persist as memory antibodies.
Structure and diversity: An antibody is composed of two identical heavy chains and two identical light chains
Diversity and maturation: Antibody diversity arises from V(D)J recombination during lymphocyte development, followed by somatic hypermutation
Functions: Neutralization of pathogens, opsonization to promote phagocytosis, activation of the complement system, antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity,
Clinical relevance: Serology detects antibodies to determine exposure or immunity. Therapeutic antibodies are used to treat
Note: In Estonian, antikeha is the term for an antibody; plural antikehad. The concept is broadly parallel