idiotype and isotype in immunology
In immunology, idiotype and isotype are terms used to describe different aspects of antibody molecules.
- Idiotype: Idiotype refers to the unique variable region of an antibody molecule. Each antibody has a specific idiotype that is determined by the amino acid sequence of its variable regions. The idiotype is responsible for the specific binding of the antibody to a particular antigen.
- Isotype: Isotype, on the other hand, refers to the different classes or subclasses of immunoglobulin molecules. There are five main classes of immunoglobulins: IgM, IgG, IgA, IgD, and IgE. These isotypes have distinct biological functions and are produced at different stages of an immune response. Isotype switching can occur during the course of an immune response, leading to the production of different isotypes with different effector functions.
In summary, idiotype refers to the unique variable region of an antibody that determines its antigen specificity, while isotype refers to the class or subclass of antibody molecule that determines its biological function.