Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 22, 2026

Characterization of Thymus-dependent and Thymus-independent Immunoglobulin Isotype Responses in Mice Using Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay
Published on: September 7, 2018
'Background' immunoglobulin production: measurement, biological significance and regulation
R Benner1, A van Oudenaren1, M Björklund1
1Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Erasmus University, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Immunology, University of Umea, Umea, Sweden.
Abstract:
Every individual produces immunoglobulins, even under germfree conditions. This article discusses the measurement, biological significance and regulation of this 'spontaneous' ('background') immunoglobulin production. The authors relate this phenomenon to the original suggestions of Niels Kaj Jerne, in 1955, about the role of 'natural' circulating antibodies in antibody formation and the completeness of the repertoire of antigen-binding specificities as represented among the natural antibodies.
More Related Videos
10:32Generation of Recombinant Human IgG Monoclonal Antibodies from Immortalized Sorted B Cells
Published on: June 5, 2015
08:26The Isolation, Differentiation, and Quantification of Human Antibody-secreting B Cells from Blood: ELISpot as a Functional Readout of Humoral Immunity
Published on: December 14, 2016
Related Concept Videos
Antibody Structure
Antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins (Ig), are essential players of the adaptive immune system. These antigen-binding proteins are produced by B cells and make up 20 percent of the total blood plasma by weight. In mammals, antibodies fall into five different classes, which each elicits a different biological response upon antigen binding.
The Y-Shaped Structure of Antibodies Consists of Four Polypeptide Chains
Antibodies consist of four polypeptide chains: two identical heavy...
Immunological Memory
What is Immunological Memory?
Immunological memory is an integral function of the immune system that allows it to recognize and react more rapidly and effectively to pathogens previously encountered. This feature...
Antibody Structure and Classes
The basic structure of an antibody consists of four protein chains: two identical heavy chains and two identical light chains. These chains are held together by disulfide bonds and other non-covalent interactions, forming a Y-shaped structure.
Production of Pharmaceuticals
B Cell Activation and Differentiation
When naive B cells encounter a specific antigen that can bind to the B cell receptor (BCR) on their surface, they undergo sensitization to respond to the antigen's presence. Sensitization begins with...
Antibody Actions
Neutralization
Antibodies can bind to pathogens, preventing them from infecting host cells. This process...