Each Immunoglobulin (Ig) Domain Is Composed of a Structure Known $\beta$

question 7

Essay

Each immunoglobulin (Ig) domain is composed of a structure known as a ' $\beta$ -sandwich,' which consists of two $\beta$ sheets covalently linked by a disulfide bond. Only a subset of the ~110 amino acids in each domain are required to establish this overall structure, and it is these amino acids that are highly conserved when comparing Ig domains to each other. What might be the advantage of this structure for use as antibody variable domains?

---

Definitions:

Mecca

A city in Saudi Arabia that is the holiest site in Islam; birthplace of Muhammad and the destination of Muslim pilgrimage.

Great Mosque Damascus

One of the oldest and most significant mosques in the world, located in Damascus, Syria, known for its architectural beauty and historical importance.

Roman Forum

An ancient rectangular plaza surrounded by the ruins of several important government buildings at the center of the city of Rome, serving as the nucleus of Roman public life.

Structural Foundation

The part of a building or structure that transfers its load directly to the earth, providing stability and support.