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Multiple Choice
True or False? The process of affinity maturation generates antibodies with an increasing capacity to bind antigens and thus to more efficiently bind to, neutralize, and eliminate microbes.
A
True.
B
False.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of affinity maturation: Affinity maturation is a process that occurs in the immune system, specifically within B cells, where the affinity of antibodies for their specific antigens increases over time.
Recognize the role of somatic hypermutation: During affinity maturation, B cells undergo somatic hypermutation, which introduces mutations in the variable region of the antibody genes. This leads to the production of antibodies with varying affinities for the antigen.
Identify the selection process: B cells that produce antibodies with higher affinity for the antigen are preferentially selected for survival and proliferation. This selection process occurs in the germinal centers of lymph nodes.
Understand the outcome of affinity maturation: As a result of this process, the immune system generates antibodies that are more effective at binding to, neutralizing, and eliminating pathogens.
Evaluate the statement: Given the explanation of affinity maturation, the statement that it generates antibodies with an increasing capacity to bind antigens and thus more efficiently neutralize and eliminate microbes is true.