The Immune System: Red Cell Agglutination in Non-Humans
- Author:
- Fred Quimby, Nancy Ridenour
- Subject:
- Science and Technology
- Institution Name:
- Cornell Veterinary College|Ithaca High School
- Collection:
- Association for Biology Laboratory Education (ABLE)
- Grade Level:
- Post-secondary
- Abstract:
This exercise presents the concepts of immunology from biochemical, evolutionary, and adaptive standpoints. While all organisms have developed some mechanism of defense against external agents, vertebrates have the most complex immune responses capable of exquisite specificity and long duration. This affords a distinct advantage to species with a relatively long life span and low fecundity. This exercise explores the relationship between immunologic stimulation of the host with foreign antigens and antibody production. The principles of species specificity, primary and secondary immune responses, cross-reactivity, and complement-mediated cell lysis are demonstrated using the red cell agglutination assay. Agglutination occurs when a single antibody molecule binds simultaneously to a surface antigen on two red cells a principle used daily in the diagnosis of viral infections and blood groups incompatibility in humans and other animals.
- Course Type:
- Learning Module
- Languages:
- English
- Material Type:
- Activities and Labs, Lesson Plans
- Media Format:
- Downloadable docs
- Conditions of Use:
-
Custom Permissions
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