Monoclonal Antibodies and Immune Response

This video tutorial covers monoclonal antibodies, explaining their production, uses, and limitations. It begins with key terms like pathogens, lymphocytes, and antigens, then details the creation of monoclonal antibodies using hybridoma technology. The video discusses applications in cancer treatment and pregnancy tests, highlighting both advantages and side effects. It concludes with a review of exam questions to reinforce understanding.

What is the primary role of lymphocytes in the immune system?

• To produce red blood cells

• To recognize and produce antibodies against antigens

• To digest food particles

• To transport oxygen throughout the body

Which of the following best describes an antigen?

• A hormone produced during pregnancy

• A chemical that breaks down food

• A protein molecule on the surface of pathogens

• A type of white blood cell

Why can't lymphocytes alone be used to produce large quantities of antibodies?

• They are too large to be effective

• They are only found in plants

• They cannot divide quickly

• They are not specific to any antigen

What is a hybridoma?

• A type of pathogen

• A type of cancer cell

• A cell that combines a lymphocyte and a tumor cell

• A molecule that transports oxygen

How are monoclonal antibodies used in cancer treatment?

• They replace damaged DNA in cancer cells

• They reduce the size of tumors by direct contact

• They transport radioactive chemicals to cancer cells

• They increase the production of red blood cells

Which hormone is detected by monoclonal antibodies in pregnancy tests?

• Thyroxine

• Insulin

• HCG

• Adrenaline

What is a major advantage of monoclonal antibodies?

• They can be used in all types of diseases

• They have no side effects

• They target specific molecules

• They are inexpensive to produce

What is a significant disadvantage of using monoclonal antibodies?

• They cannot be used in diagnostic tests

• They are not specific to any molecule

• They can cause unpleasant side effects

• They are ineffective in cancer treatment

How do monoclonal antibodies help in diagnosing diseases?

• By reducing the symptoms of the disease

• By attaching to antigens and using a dye for detection

• By increasing the number of white blood cells

• By replacing damaged tissues

What is the role of a fluorescent dye in the use of monoclonal antibodies?

• To change the color of the antibodies

• To make the antibodies visible under UV light

• To enhance the immune response

• To increase the speed of antibody production