Final answer:
The human immune system produces billions of different antibodies, which are immunoglobulins that target antigens. Variable loops and β strands form the ligand-binding sites, while affinity chromatography can be used for protein purification with antibodies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The human immune system produces billions of different immunoglobulins, also called antibodies, which enable the immune system to recognize and fight germs by specifically binding one or a few related antigens. The hypervariable structural element that forms the ligand-binding site is comprised of several loops and β strands. Purified antibodies are useful for a variety of experimental purposes, including protein purification using affinity chromatography.