Study note
MicrobiologyImmune Response

Side chain theory of antibody formation

THE CONTEXT
The side chain theory is presented as an abandoned explanation of the immune response.

Proposed receptor function

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Cells were considered to possess surface receptors that react with substances having complementary side chains.
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These receptors were proposed to anchor nutrients to cells before assimilation.

Proposed sequence of antibody formation

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Foreign antigens were proposed to bind cell receptors with a complementary fit.
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This binding was said to inactivate the receptors and interfere with nutrient absorption.
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Compensatory overproduction of the same receptor type was proposed to occur, with the excess receptors circulating in blood as antibodies.
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