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Antibody Classes and Functions

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State

Antibodies divide into five classes by constant region, each suited to a role: circulating widely, guarding mucosal surfaces, triggering allergic responses, or marking early infection.

Show

One class crosses the placenta, giving a newborn temporary passive immunity before its own system matures.

Watch for

Class describes functional role, not antigen specificity — the same variable region can appear on different classes.