Polyclonal Antibodies Can Be Generated Against Almost Any Protein of Interest

question 5

Short Answer

Polyclonal antibodies can be generated against almost any protein of interest by repeatedly injecting the purified protein into an animal (such as a rabbit) and collecting blood serum once the animal's immune system has produced antibodies against the protein. In this process, the antigen is not injected alone; it is co-injected with a so-called adjuvant to "trick" the immune system. Additionally, the adjuvant used in the first injection is often different from that used in later "booster" injections. Freund's complete adjuvant (C) contains a water-oil emulsion plus heat-killed Mycobacteria. In contrast, Freund's incomplete adjuvant (I) lacks the Mycobacteria component. Which adjuvant (C or I) do you think is used in the booster injections? Which immune response-primary (P) or secondary (S)-is triggered after the first purified protein injection? Activation of which antigen-specific immune cells-memory (M) or effector (E)-is chiefly responsible for the "boosting" effect of the later injections? Write down your answer as a three-letter string, e.g. ISM.

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Definitions:

Global Perspective

A worldview that considers the interconnectedness and interdependence of all nations and peoples.

Violent Traditions

Practices or customs within a society that involve or endorse violence, often passed down through generations.

Sexual Exclusiveness

Sexual exclusiveness refers to the practice of having sexual relations with only one partner, typically in the context of a romantic or marital relationship.

Homosexuality

A sexual orientation characterized by romantic or sexual attraction between individuals of the same sex or gender.