Immunoglobulins: Structure, Genetics and Evolution

Author: Hood, Leroy Edward

Year: 1968

Degree: Dissertation (Ph.D.)

Advisor: Dreyer, William J.

Committee Member: Unknown, Unknown

Option: Biochemistry

DOI: 10.7907/3ZM8-A807

Abstract

The immune system is capable of generating an immense number of different antibody molecules. The nature of the genetic machinery responsible for this diversity has been studied by selective amino acid sequence analysis of homogeneous immunoglobulin light chains (derived from myeloma tumors). The evolution of the immune system has also been examined through chemical studies of normal pooled light chains derived from various mammalian and avian species. These studies place constraints on proposed genetic mechanisms for antibody diversity. The theories, the structural constraints, and the evolutionary implications of these observations are discussed.

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