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Stimulated B lymphocytes switch from the synthesis of membrane-bound to secreted antibody molecules by increasing the concentration of a subunit of the trimetric CstF complex that cleaves and polyadenylates mRNA. How does this up-regulation of CstF bring about the production of soluble antibodies?

User Butsuri
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Final answer:

The up-regulation of the CstF complex in B lymphocytes enables the transition from membrane-bound antibodies to soluble antibody production by altering mRNA processing which is essential for the immune system's adaptive capability.

Step-by-step explanation:

When B lymphocytes are stimulated, they switch from producing membrane-bound antibody molecules to producing secreted antibody molecules. This switch is achieved by up-regulating a subunit of the trimetric CstF complex, which cleaves and polyadenylates mRNA. The up-regulation of CstF increases the concentration of this subunit, leading to the production of soluble antibodies. The increased concentration of the CstF subunit allows for efficient mRNA processing and secretion of antibody molecules.

Up-regulation of the CstF complex enhances the mRNA processing, facilitating a switch from membrane-bound antibodies to secreted antibodies, leading to the production of soluble immunoglobulins like IgG, IgA, or IgE. This change is critical for the class switching process in plasma cells that are cloned from a stimulated B cell. By altering the mRNA cleavage and polyadenylation, different forms of antibodies specific to the same antigens can be produced, allowing a more effective immune response.

User Canberk Sinangil
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